D. Comparisons and Context

D. Making Comparisons and Connections

(6 marks, SL & HL)
Key Vocabulary:

• Connectors for Comparison: similarly, likewise, in contrast, whereas, however, on the other hand, both, while.

• Comparison Areas: formal qualities, function, purpose, cultural context, technique, symbolism, audience impact, materials.

• Analytical Verbs: compare, contrast, synthesize, connect, link, relate, integrate.

• Qualifiers: logical, coherent, critical, thorough, meaningful

High-band responses make logical, coherent, and critical comparisons between artworks, integrating analysis of similarities and differences in formal qualities, purpose, function, and cultural context. Your comparisons should reveal deeper insights about each work, not just list differences.
Tips:

• Use structured comparison language such as “Both works… however…”

• Make sure each comparison ties back to your chosen theme or concept

• Include comparisons that reveal meaning and avoid surface-level points like “one is bigger”
  
  

Additional Resources on this Scoring Criterion

Example: