McMaster LibGuides: Studying and Taking Exams: Four Levels of Questions (2024)

Four Levels of Questions

Take a concept and insert it into these questions. Then look for an answer! These questions might be at the end of a textbook chapter, in the study guide, or in the course learning objectives; look there first.

Level 1: Summary / Definition / Fact Questions

  • What is the definition of…?

  • Who did…?

  • When did… occur?

  • How much/many?

  • What is an example of…?

Level 2: Analysis / Interpretation Questions

  • Why does… occur?

  • How does… function?

  • What aretypes orexamples of…?

  • What are the results when… occurs?

Level 3: Hypothesis / Prediction Questions

  • If… occurs, then what would happen?

  • If… changed, then what would change?

  • What does Theory X predict will happen?

  • What hypothesis or theory explains this data or given information?

Level 4: Critical Analysis / Evaluation / Opinion Questions

  • Is… correct or incorrect and why?

  • Is… effective or ineffective and why?

  • Is… applicable or not applicable and why?

  • Is… proven or not proven and why?

  • Is… ethical or unethical and why?

  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of… and why?

  • What is the best solution to the problem, conflict, or issue and why?

  • What is my opinion? What is the support for my opinion?

Improve your writing and study skills!Book an appointment with a writing advisor and/or academic coach onOSCARplus. Questions? Emailskills@mcmaster.ca.

References

Thorpe, J. (1999).Method of inquiry: Strategies for thinking and learning. Ryerson Polytechnic University. Available at the Ryerson University Learning and Teaching Office.

McMaster LibGuides: Studying and Taking Exams: Four Levels of Questions (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Greg O'Connell

Last Updated:

Views: 5902

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (62 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Greg O'Connell

Birthday: 1992-01-10

Address: Suite 517 2436 Jefferey Pass, Shanitaside, UT 27519

Phone: +2614651609714

Job: Education Developer

Hobby: Cooking, Gambling, Pottery, Shooting, Baseball, Singing, Snowboarding

Introduction: My name is Greg O'Connell, I am a delightful, colorful, talented, kind, lively, modern, tender person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.