An information retrieval system and method are presented. A template is retrieved from a template repository. The template repository stores a plurality of templates. Each of the plurality of templates includes a concept and a relationship from a knowledge model. The knowledge model defines a plurality of entities and interrelationships between one or more of the plurality of entities. The plurality of entities include concepts and instances. The template is transmitted to a client computer, and a statement is received from the client computer. The statement includes an instantiation of the template. A knowledge base is queried using the statement to generate a result listing identifying an item in the knowledge base. The knowledge base identifies a plurality of items. Each of the plurality of items is associated with at least one annotation identifying at one of the entities in the knowledge model.