Which verb is an indicator of higher-order thinking in learning objectives?

• A. Analyze
• B. Remember
• C. List
• D. Define

Answer: (A)

Higher-order thinking is shown when students go beyond recalling information to examine, interpret, and critique it. The verb analyze requires breaking information into parts, identifying relationships and patterns, and explaining how those parts fit together. That kind of processing demonstrates critical thinking and the ability to understand underlying structure, not just memorize facts.

Remember asks for recalling information, which is a lower level of thinking. List is simply naming items, another basic task. Define asks for giving a precise meaning, which shows understanding but not the deeper evaluation or restructuring involved in analysis. So, analyzing is the best indicator of higher-order thinking.