How to Formulate Understanding-Based Questions in Bloom’s Taxonomy?

 

Understanding-Based Questions in Bloom’s Taxonomy

In the framework of Bloom’s Taxonomy, the second level—Understanding—marks a crucial step in the learning process. At this stage, students are expected to move beyond simple recall of facts and demonstrate a deeper grasp of concepts. This involves the ability to explain ideas, interpret information, summarize key points, and classify data or concepts appropriately. Designing effective understanding-based questions helps learners process and internalize knowledge, setting a strong foundation for higher-order thinking skills.

 🔹 Key Cognitive Skill: Understanding

This level measures the learner’s ability to:

• Explain ideas or concepts
• Interpret meanings
• Summarize information
• Classify or compare items
• Give examples in context

 🔹 Action Verbs for Understanding-Level Questions

Use verbs like:

• Explain
• Summarize
• Interpret
• Describe
• Compare
• Classify
• Paraphrase
• Give an example
• Illustrate

Bloom’s Taxonomy Verb Chart   https://tips.uark.edu/blooms-taxonomy-verb-chart/

 🔹 Question Starters for Understanding

• Can you explain why…?
• How would you summarize…?
• Describe in your own words…
• What is the main idea of…?
• How would you compare…?
• Give an example of…
• Classify the following…

 🔹 Examples

• Explain the difference between a physical and chemical change.
• Describe what happens when iron reacts with copper sulphate solution.
• Why is it important to balance a chemical equation?

• How would you classify substances as acidic or basic using indicators?
• Explain how baking soda can be used to neutralize acidity.

• Compare the chemical properties of metals and non-metals.
• Explain why sodium is stored in kerosene.

• Describe the role of covalent bonding in carbon compounds.
• Why do carbon compounds have low melting points?

• Explain how elements are arranged in the modern periodic table.
• How would you classify elements based on their metallic and non-metallic character?

 🔹 Quick Tip for Teachers

Think of “Can the student explain the concept in their own words?”
If yes, you’re aiming for the understanding level.