ESS Exam Skills & Techniques
Master the IB Environmental Systems & Societies exam. Learn paper structures, command terms, marking criteria, and where to find easy marks.
ESS is available at SL only — no HL option. It counts as both a Group 3 and Group 4 subject.
ESS Assessment at a Glance
ESS Paper Structure
Know exactly what to expect in each paper and how to maximize your marks.
Paper 1
Case StudyAn unseen case study with data, graphs and images. Questions range from 1-8 marks.
What to expect:
Key Tips
- Skim questions first → then read case study looking for relevant data
- Underline numbers, dates, and locations as you read
- Use proper ESS terms (e.g. "biomagnification" not "builds up")
Easy Marks
- Quote exact data: "CO₂ increased by 23% between 2010-2020"
- Systems diagrams: inputs → processes → outputs + feedback loops
- Give the exact number asked: "2 reasons" means write 2, not 1 or 3
Watch Out
- No case study reference = lost marks
- Describe = what happens. Explain = why it happens
Paper 2
Short Answer & EssaysWhat to expect:
Key Tips
- Section A: 2 marks = 2-3 sentences max
- Section B: 5 min plan + 25 min write per essay
- Be specific: "Aral Sea, Kazakhstan" not "a lake"
Easy Marks
- Use real examples: Deepwater Horizon, Aral Sea, Chernobyl
- Draw labeled diagrams (carbon cycle, Gersmehl)
- Intro = define terms, Conclusion = answer the question
Watch Out
- Don't spend too long on Section A — save time for essays
- For "Evaluate": show BOTH sides or lose half the marks
ESS Command Terms
Command terms tell you exactly what the examiner expects. Grouped by Assessment Objective (AO).
Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, or concept.
Give a specific name, value, or brief answer without explanation.
Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.
Provide an answer from several possibilities.
Add labels to a diagram.
Give a brief account or summary of the main points.
Give a detailed account of characteristics, features, or processes.
Give detailed reasons or causes. Show connections using "because", "therefore", "this leads to".
Obtain a numerical answer showing working and units.
Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.
Represent by means of a labeled, accurate diagram or graph.
Give an account of similarities AND differences.
Give an account of similarities and differences, with more emphasis on differences.
Break down into components; examine relationships and patterns.
Assess strengths and limitations; make a balanced, justified judgment.
Present multiple perspectives with evidence. Reach a reasoned conclusion.
Consider the evidence on both sides and reach a justified conclusion.
Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.
What Examiners Expect
Match your answer depth to the marks available.
Example questions:
- "Define biodiversity"
- "State one effect of eutrophication"
- "List two greenhouse gases"
One clear point per mark. No explanation needed.
Example questions:
- "Outline the role of decomposers"
- "Explain how deforestation affects the carbon cycle"
Use "because", "therefore", "this leads to" to show connections.
Example questions:
- "Analyse the impacts of ocean acidification"
- "Compare two renewable energy sources"
Include specific examples and consider multiple factors.
Example questions:
- "Evaluate strategies for reducing plastic pollution"
- "Discuss the role of international agreements in addressing climate change"
Show both sides, include EVS perspectives, reach a justified conclusion.
ESS-Specific Skills
These concepts appear throughout ESS exams. Master them to score higher.
Environmental Value Systems
Always consider ecocentric, anthropocentric, and technocentric viewpoints in discussion/evaluate questions.
Systems Thinking
Show understanding of inputs, outputs, storages, flows, feedback loops, and tipping points.
Named Case Studies
Include specific examples with names, locations, dates, and statistics (e.g., Aral Sea, Great Barrier Reef, Deepwater Horizon).
Data Skills
Practice interpreting graphs, calculating ecological footprints, Simpson's index, and percentage changes.
Common ESS Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes. These cost students marks every exam session.
Not using case study data in Paper 1
Reference specific numbers, quotes, or data from the case study
Vague answers without examples
Include named case studies with specific details (location, date, data)
Forgetting Environmental Value Systems
For "discuss/evaluate" questions, include different EVS perspectives
Confusing "describe" and "explain"
Describe = what/how. Explain = why/cause-effect with "because"
Running out of time on essays
Spend 5 mins planning, 25 mins writing per essay. Don't over-write early questions
One-sided arguments in evaluate questions
Always show both strengths AND limitations, then give justified judgment
Internal Assessment (IA)
25% of final grade • 2,250 words maximum
Individual investigation on an ESS research question you design
Marking Criteria
Tips for Top Marks
- Choose a local, measurable research question
- Collect primary data where possible
- Use statistical tests to analyse your data
- Link findings to ESS theory and wider implications
- Discuss limitations and suggest improvements
Ready to Practice?
Apply these exam skills with our ESS practice questions. Get instant AI feedback that shows exactly what scored marks and how to improve.