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For both students and teachers, the command term 'contrast' is often one of the most challenging when it comes to Extended Response Questions (ERQs). 

While other command terms, such as 'discuss,' 'evaluate,' and 'to what extent,' offer more flexibility, 'contrast' has a narrower focus, requiring students to concentrate on key differences between two items. 

This article provides a structured approach to help students tackle ‘contrast’ effectively.

Answer Structure at a Glance

When answering 'contrast' questions, students should follow a clear structure:

Introduction: Define the two items and any relevant concepts.

Contrasting Descriptions: Describe each item with sentences that highlight differences.

Research Evidence: Use studies that showcase the distinctions between the items.

Alternative Perspective: Briefly address any potential similarities.

Conclusion: Summarise the main differences and suggest a triangulated approach to enhance understanding.

Background on Command Terms

In IB Psychology, command terms guide the approach for each ERQ. 

For example, ‘discuss’ invites students to balance description and evaluation, ‘evaluate’ focuses on strengths and limitations, and ‘to what extent’ resembles a debate. 

However, ‘contrast’ explicitly requires students to identify and articulate differences, making it more limited in its applicability. 

In Paper 1, it could appear as a comparison between two models of memory or two research methods. 

In Paper 2, students might be asked to contrast two research methods or two approaches (biological, cognitive, or sociocultural) to a given topic, as well as the possibility of being asked to contrast two explanations within subtopics.

The official IB definition for 'contrast' is: "Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout." 

Students should avoid separating the essay into two distinct sections for each item. 

Instead, they should blend their descriptions with a focus on contrasts, using keywords like 'in contrast,' 'conversely,' and 'on the contrary.'

Writing Each Section of a ‘Contrast’ ERQ

1. Introduction

Begin by defining the two items under comparison and any key concepts mentioned in the question. 

This ensures students set a solid foundation and frame the items in context, preparing the reader to understand the contrasts that follow.

2. Contrasting Descriptions

After the introduction, students should describe each item in more detail, using signposting words to emphasise differences. 

For example, “Model A describes memory processing as a linear sequence, while Model B, in contrast, suggests a dynamic interaction among processes.” 

This approach demonstrates a clear comparison and satisfies the 'contrast' requirement throughout.

3. Research Evidence

To strengthen their arguments, students should use one study to support each contrasting item. 

For instance, a study on Model A could highlight its methodology and findings, followed by a contrasting study that supports Model B. 

Students should then conclude each study’s description by explicitly pointing out how the findings or methodologies differ, connecting these differences to specific strengths and limitations.

4. Addressing Psychological Issues and Debates

Encourage students to link the contrasting items to psychological debates such as free will vs. determinism, nature vs. nurture, or reductionism vs. holism. 

Highlighting how each item stands on these issues can deepen the contrast and demonstrate critical thinking.

5. Alternative Perspective and Conclusion

In a penultimate paragraph or the conclusion, students can address minor similarities, which adds depth and may contribute to criteria D marks. 

Students should then conclude by summarising the primary differences and suggesting that both items could be triangulated to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Supporting Students to Develop Confidence

Although ‘contrast’ ERQs can be tricky, students can build confidence with practice, clear examples, and a structured approach. 

By showing them how to interweave contrasting elements throughout, you'll help them meet the command term requirements while crafting cohesive, insightful essays.

Here are two model answers for you to share with your students to help them see 'contrast' answers done well.

Contrast two models of memory.pdf

Contrast two explanations of one disorder.pdf

I hope this helps.

Thes

Other articles in this series:

• How scientific do you have to be in Biological Approach?
• Navigating Paper 2 options.
• Successfully selecting exam questions.