Paragraph Structures for the Final Exam

Paragraph Structures for the IB Business Final

K, A, CL, E (Knowledge, Analysis/Application, Case Link, Evaluation)

K = Business Knowledge and Theory

A = Application of knowledge and theory to answer question. Why does this matter?

CL = Case Link is directly connecting the theory to things that are happening in the case.

E = Evaluation is assessing the value, importance, or quality and making a judgement or forming a conclusion 

Good trigger words to help with Evaluation

• However, ...

• In the short term,  ... but in the long term ...

• In retrospect, ...

• In theory, ... but in reality ...

• It depends on ...

• It is likely that ...

• Nevertheless, ...

• On the other hand ...

• Overall, ...

• The most significant factor is, ... because ...

DEAD

A useful way to demonstrate the skills of analysis is to use the DEAD framework, i.e., the analysis of a particular issue or problem needs to include:

• Definitions - or appropriate use of Business Management terminology in addressing the chosen issue or problem facing the real-world organization in the business research project.

• Explanations - appropriate tools and theories need to be explained in the context of the research question. Do not allow the moderator to question any of your written work. All paragraphs must be fit-for-purpose in order to prevent the moderator being able to question "why?"

• Advantages of the points discussed, i.e., provide arguments in favour of a particular choice / outcome/ decision.

• Disadvantages of the points discussed, i.e., provide arguments against a particular choice /outcome/ decision.

DATE

An alternative framework you can use to demonstrate analysis is to use the DATE framework, by showing the following:

• Definitions and use of key terminology that are relevant to the research question.

• Application - each and every paragraph must be written in the context of the chosen organization and the issue or problem identified in the research question.

• Theory - use terminology, tools, techniques, and theories relevant to the focus of the research question.

• Evidence - explanations and applications are improved by the use of evidence from the 3 - 5 supporting documents. In turn, this helps to improve the analysis in the written commentary.

SLAP

Students often struggle with demonstrating evaluation skills. One way that works well for many students is to use the SLAP framework - the evaluation can include a critical view of any of the following aspects:

• Stakeholder perspectives - not all stakeholder groups are equal, nor are they equally affected by business decisions and strategic choices.

• Long-term versus short-term consequences - as is often the case in business, there may need to be some short term pains (sacrifices) for long term gains.

• Advantages / Disadvantages - what are the overall advantages and disadvantages of the decision.

• Priorities - this requires the student to prioritize the arguments presented in the written commentary. For example, if the student has presented more advantages or strengths than drawbacks or weaknesses, which of these has the greatest weighting, and why?