What type of question asks for factual information?

A question that asks for factual information is categorized as a knowledge question. Knowledge questions specifically seek to gather information or details that can be verified and are typically based on recall of facts, such as definitions, dates, or other specific data. This type of question focuses on the foundational knowledge one needs to understand a subject fully.

In the context of education and assessment, knowledge questions are essential because they ensure that students have a solid grasp of the material before moving on to more complex forms of thinking, such as analysis, synthesis, or evaluation. These latter types involve higher-order thinking skills where learners must analyze information, create new ideas, or make judgments based on criteria, rather than simply recalling factual data.

For example, analysis questions might require a breakdown of concepts, synthesis questions could involve combining different pieces of information to form a new whole, and evaluation questions would ask for judgments based on the information provided. Each of these types of questions builds upon the basic understanding established through knowledge questions.