Synthesis: Create It!

Definition: the putting together of elementary and parts to form a whole. This unique arrangement must create a new pattern or structure that was clearly not there before. This level recognizes creative behavior, but does not imply free expression.

• Create something new by making connections with prior knowledge.
• Develop a hypothesis or prediction.
• Plan a procedure or a design.

Highest Level: designing a new chemical process based on what is know about chemistry, unit operations, and technology
Lowest Level: create a list of new ways to use this object

Commonly used verbs at the Application level (Actual verbs from the original Taxonomy are in italic):

• arrange
• combine
• compose
• create
• design
• develop
• generalize
• hypothesize
• invent
• modify
• plan
• write

Analysis: Take It Apart!

Definition: the breakdown of a communication for the purpose of clarification. This occurs when students are able to recognize how the information is organized as well as recognize the technique used to convey the message.

• Break down information into understandable parts.
• Recognize organizational structure.
• Identify relationships and connections.

Highest Level: identifying relationships and connections between pieces of information
Lowest Level: recognizing the organizational structure of the information

Commonly used verbs at the Application level (Actual verbs from the original Taxonomy are in italic):

• analyze
• break down
• classify
• compare
• connect
• contrast
• discriminate
• distinguish
• infer
• recognize structure
• relate
• separate

Application: Use It!

Definition: when given a problem new to the student, he/she will apply what he knows and use it in this situation without being prompted. The student might use general ideas, procedures, or methods that he has remembered and apply them to this new situation.

• Apply previously learned information in new situations.
• Choose the correct method for problem solving.
• Experiment to predict outcomes.

Highest level: setting up a procedure for solving a problem.
Lowest level: supporting a conclusion with evidence.

Commonly used verbs at the Application level (Actual verbs from the original Taxonomy are in italic):

• apply
• choose
• calculate
• demonstrate
• discover
• experiment
• predict
• solve
• relate
• support a conclusion
• transfer of training
• use  

Comprehension: Interpret It!

Definition:to know what is being communicated and to be able to make use of the information. Comprehension is the lowest level of understanding but is probably the most emphasized in classroom instruction.

• Understand the literal meaning of the information.
• Interpret for later use.
• Summarize in your own words.

Highest level: predicting continuation of trends based on information read.
Lowest level:  being able to summarize a story.

Commonly used verbs at the Comprehension level (Actual verbs from the original Taxonomy are in italic):

• conclude
• estimate
• explain
• extend
• extrapolate
• generalize
• use information
• infer
• interpret
• predict
• reorder
• rephrase
• summarize
• translate