The Guide to Command Terms for IB Environmental Systems and Societies

Excelling in IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) isn’t just about understanding the complex interactions between the environment and human societies. It’s also about responding to questions in a way that aligns with IB examiners' expectations. Command terms provide essential guidance on how to structure and present your answers.

What Are Command Terms?

Command terms are the instructional words or phrases used in IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) questions, guiding students on how to structure and present their answers. These range from straightforward tasks like "state" or "identify" to more complex actions such as "evaluate" or "discuss."

Each command term has a distinct meaning, and examiners expect students to respond accordingly. For example:

"Calculate" requires you to demonstrate all the steps leading to your final answer.
"Describe" calls for a clear explanation of a concept, process, or system related to environmental science or sustainability.

With exams contributing significantly to the overall marks in most IB subjects, mastering command terms is essential for achieving strong results.

💡Check out our blog for a full breakdown of how the IB is graded!

IB Environmental Systems and Societies Command Terms

Command Term	Description
Analyse	Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.
Annotate	Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.
Apply	Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given problem or issue.
Calculate	Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages of working.
Comment	Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.
Compare and contrast	Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Construct	Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.
Deduce	Reach a conclusion from the information given.
Define	Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.
Demonstrate	Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application.
Derive	Manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new equation or relationship.
Design	Produce a plan, simulation or model.
Determine	Obtain the only possible answer.
Discuss	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.
Distinguish	Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.
Draw	Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.
Estimate	Obtain an approximate value.
Evaluate	Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.
Examine	Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue.
Explain	Give a detailed account, including reasons or causes.
Identify	Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.
Interpret	Use knowledge and understanding to recognize trends and draw conclusions from given information.
Justify	Provide evidence to support or defend a choice, decision, strategy or course of action.
Label	Add labels to a diagram.
List	Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.
Measure	Obtain a value for a quantity.
Outline	Give a brief account or summary.
Predict	Give an expected result.
Sketch	Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labelled as appropriate). The sketch should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include relevant features.
State	Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.
Suggest	Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.
To what extent	Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument.

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Why Are Command Terms Important?

Clarity in Expectations:
- Command terms outline exactly what the question requires. Misunderstanding or neglecting them can lead to incomplete or inaccurate answers, even if you are well-versed in ESS concepts.
Efficient Time Management:
- Recognising the command term early helps you structure your response efficiently, saving time and avoiding irrelevant explanations.
Maximising Marks:
- IB examiners allocate marks based on how well you address the specific requirements of a question. Responding effectively to command terms ensures you meet all criteria needed for full marks.

Study and Exam Tips for IB Environmental Systems and Societies

Mastering command terms is just one part of success in IB ESS. To fully prepare for your exams, incorporate these strategies into your study routine:

1. Practise Past Papers

Familiarise yourself with how command terms are applied in actual IB ESS exams by working through past papers. Pay close attention to question structure and mark schemes to understand the level of detail required.

After speaking with over 500 IB tutors, one key recommendation emerged: the best way to prepare for IB exams is by practising past papers.

Get The Complete List of All IB Command Terms

Do you want to get a 7? Understanding all the IB command terms are critical to doing well in the IB exams

2. Build a Command Term Glossary

Compile a list of all command terms with their definitions. Use flashcards or a centralised document to regularly review them. This will help you internalise the specific expectations of each term.

3. Study Mark Schemes

Review how marks are awarded for different types of questions. Understanding what examiners look for will guide you in providing the appropriate depth of explanation or analysis for each command term.

4. Link Concepts to Real-World Examples

For terms like "analyse" or "evaluate," support your responses with real-world examples or case studies. This approach strengthens your arguments and demonstrates a practical understanding of ESS concepts.

5. Practise Under Timed Conditions

Simulate exam settings by practising with time constraints. This will train you to quickly identify command terms and construct concise, focused responses during the exam.

6. Seek Detailed Feedback

Ask your teacher or tutor to review your practice answers and offer constructive feedback. This will help refine your responses and ensure they align with the requirements of the command terms.

Conclusion

Mastering command terms is an integral part of excelling in IB Environmental Systems and Societies. These terms act as a guide, ensuring your responses meet the expectations of IB examiners. However, true success requires more than just understanding command terms—it also involves consistent practice, a solid grasp of ESS principles, and strategic exam preparation.

With commitment and the right strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to achieve your goals in IB ESS and make meaningful connections between environmental systems and societies.