IB MYP Language and Literature: Command terms

IB MYP Language and Literature uses MYP command terms across Criteria A–D. Assessment is criterion-based. Command terms such as Analyse, Explain, Evaluate, Discuss and Compare are central to extended responses and literary analysis.

Key command terms for Language and Literature

Command term	What to do	Common mistake
Identify	Name or pick out	Adding interpretation
Describe	Account of content/features	Adding analysis
Explain	Reasons; how/why	Only describing
Analyse	Break down; show how parts create meaning	Surface-level
Compare	Similarities and/or differences	Listing separately
Contrast	Differences	Similarities
Discuss	Range of arguments; balanced view	One-sided
Evaluate	Strengths and limitations; judgement	Description only
Examine	Unpack assumptions; interrelationships	Surface-level
Interpret	Draw meaning from text	Stating plot only
Justify	Support with evidence from text	Unsupported claim
Outline	Brief account	Too much detail
Suggest	Propose reading; support with evidence	Random interpretation
Synthesize	Combine ideas to create new understanding	Summarising only

MYP Language and Literature criteria

• Criterion A: Analysing—Analyse, Explain, Compare, Interpret
• Criterion B: Organizing—Structure, Present, Organize
• Criterion C: Producing text—Use, Demonstrate, Apply
• Criterion D: Using language—Use, Apply, Demonstrate

Tips for Language and Literature

1. Analyse—quote + effect + link to meaning
2. Explain—how and why; use “because”
3. Evaluate—strengths and limitations; supported judgement
4. Compare—integrate (“Both X and Y…”); don’t list separately
5. Justify—always support with textual evidence
6. Check criterion descriptors for level boundaries

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Based on MYP Language and Literature guide. Check your school’s subject outline for criterion descriptors.

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