Lesson Objectives at Different Cognitive Levels

Cognitive Level / Useful Verbs / Concrete Tasks / Sample Objectives
Knowledge
Recognizing and recalling information. / Tell
list
relate
locate
write
find
state
name / Recall or recognize information, usually in the same way it was learned / When shown an exclamation point, a student will identify it by name.
The student will be able to list all of the noble gases and their atomic weight.
The student will be able to record the roots of 8 of the 10 graphed quadratic equations.
Comprehension
Understanding the meaning of information. / Explain
outline
discuss
distinguish
predict
restate
translate
compare
describe / Translate or interpret prior learning / The student will describe the use of an exclamation point.
After reading a short story, the student will be able to summarize the main conflict in one paragraph (at least five sentences).
After studying World War II, the student will be able to explain the conditions in Europe and Asia that led to the war.
Application
Using information. / Solve
show
use
illustrate
calculate
construct
complete
examine
classify / Independently apply the knowledge or skills learned / The student will use an exclamation point in a sentence.
Using two distinctly different algorithms, the student will be able to solve two-digit subtraction problems.
The student will prepare a graph that shows the mean temperature of the Pacific ocean over the past twenty years.
Analysis
Dissecting information into its component parts to see their relationships. / Analyze
distinguish
examine
compare
contrast
investigate
categorize
identify
explain
separate / Separate, examine, and draw conclusions from information / The student will identify an exclamation point’s misuse in a paragraph.
Given a sentence, a student will be able to identify the major parts of speech.
The student will be able to break down a chemical spill into different pathways for human exposure.
Synthesis
Putting components together to form new ideas. / Create
invent
compose
predict
plan
construct
design
imagine
improve
propose
devise
formulate
elaborate / Combine information and apply it to a new situation in order to solve a problem / The student will use exclamation points, questions marks, and periods appropriately in a piece of writing.
Given the materials, a student will be able to create a kite that adheres to the qualities (e.g. aspect ratio, surface area to weight ratio) of a successful design.
The student will compose a persuasive essay that directly connects to an issue of personal relevance.
Evaluation
Judging the worth of an idea. / judge
select
choose
decide
justify
debate
verify
argue
recommend
discuss
determine
prioritize
assess / Make qualitative and quantitative assessments using specific criteria / The student can evaluate the effective use of exclamation points in creating the mood in a descriptive passage.
Students will be able to argue, either for or against, the implications in cloning human beings.
Given a social conflict, the student will be able to recommend strategies that will facilitate a peaceful resolution.