Evaluate vs Discuss: IB MYP Extended Response Command Terms
Why evaluation-style command terms matter
Evaluate and Discuss are higher-order MYP command terms (Analyse and Evaluate/Create levels). They require you to make a judgement or balanced argument, not just describe or list. They often appear in Criterion D (Reflecting) and Criterion E (Subject-specific extended tasks). Marks are awarded using criterion level descriptors—depth and structure matter.
Evaluate: weigh up strengths and limitations
MYP definition
Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.
What to do
- Present strengths (advantages, benefits, evidence in favour)
- Present limitations (weaknesses, drawbacks, evidence against)
- Reach a judgement or conclusion
- Support with evidence and examples
Structure
- Introduction: Outline the issue
- Strengths: 2–3 points with evidence
- Limitations: 2–3 points with evidence
- Conclusion: Your judgement—overall, how valid or effective is it?
Common mistake
Only listing strengths or only limitations. Evaluate requires both, plus a clear conclusion.
Discuss: balanced review with range of arguments
MYP definition
Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
What to do
- Present different perspectives or arguments
- Consider multiple factors or hypotheses
- Offer a balanced treatment (not one-sided)
- Reach a conclusion supported by evidence
Structure
- Introduction: Set out the issue
- Body: Present different arguments/factors (for and against, or multiple angles)
- Conclusion: Your view, clearly stated and supported
Common mistake
Only presenting one side. Discuss expects a range of views and a supported conclusion.
Quick comparison
| Command term | Focus | Conclusion type |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluate | Strengths and limitations | Judgement on overall merit |
| Discuss | Range of arguments/factors | Balanced conclusion with evidence |
MYP criterion alignment
- Criterion D (Reflecting): Evaluate often used for reflecting on learning, methodology, or impacts
- Criterion E: Discuss and Evaluate used in extended writing (e.g. Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Language and Literature)
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Based on MYP From Principles to Practice. Check your subject guide for criterion-specific descriptors.
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