Teacher’s Survival Kit: 200+ Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs to Elevate Learning Objectives

Mikel Resaba

Mikel Resaba

Teacher’s Survival Kit: 200+ Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs to Elevate Learning Objectives

Welcome, educators! Whether you’ve been in the teaching world for a while or you’re just about to dive in, one thing is for sure: crafting engaging and effective lesson plans is a vital part of your job. That’s where Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs come to help; it’s a toolkit that every teacher should be equipped with, as it pinpoints six crucial milestones in your student’s learning.

Read on and dive into over 200 Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs that can change the way you frame learning objectives and guide students toward success!

Understanding Bloom’s Taxonomy

bloom's taxonomy verbs

Before we unleash the power of these verbs, a quick refresher on Bloom’s Taxonomy is in order. This hierarchical model categorizes learning objectives into six levels: Remember, Understand, Apply, Analyze, Evaluate, and Create. Each level represents a step in the cognitive development ladder, as they are crucial building blocks in your student’s comprehensive learning experiences.

Check out this blog post for a handy guide on common formative assessment questions to supercharge your Bloom's Taxonomy journey.

Why Use Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs?

The purpose of using Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs is to precisely define and communicate the level of thinking or cognitive complexity required for a particular learning task or objective. Teachers can use these Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs in their lesson plans or communication in class to stimulate the right thinking skills. Here are more benefits of using Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs in your lessons:

  • Clarity: They offer a clear roadmap for what you expect your students to achieve.
  • Comprehensible outcomes: These verbs ensure objectives are specific and assessable.
  • Better engagement: Using Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs in lesson communication involves the incorporating of a variety of cognitive skills, encouraging active participation and engagement.
  • Diverse Assessment Opportunities: Design various assessment methods that cater to different levels of cognitive ability.
  • Personalized Learning: Tailor teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and abilities.

200+ Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs and Their Respective Categories

blooms taxonomy categories

The taxonomy spans six cognitive levels: Remember, Understand, Apply, Analyze, Evaluate, and Create. Each level corresponds to specific verbs, guiding educators and learners alike in their journey as they develop a comprehensive approach to cognitive development.

Remember 

The Remember category in Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs highlights the vitality of fundamental cognitive processes such as recognizing, recalling, and retrieving information from memory. It is the first level in Bloom’s Taxonomy, the foundation for every higher-order thinking skill that follows. 

As teachers, you are tasked to help your students hone this skill, so that it will help them later in life. This is important because learners are expected to recall information from memory and recognize key terms all throughout their lives.

Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs for the Remember category:

VerbSentence
CiteCite two sources to support your argument in the essay.
DefineDefine the term ‘ecosystem’ for your science project.
DescribeDescribe the main character’s personality in the story.
DrawDraw the structure of a plant cell in biology class.
EnumerateEnumerate the steps involved in a chemical reaction.
IdentifyIdentify the countries on the map during geography class.
IndexCreate an index for your term paper.
IndicateIndicate the correct answer on the quiz.
LabelLabel the parts of the human digestive system.
ListList the ingredients needed for the recipe.
MatchMatch each word to its definition.
MeetMeet the criteria outlined in the assignment guidelines.
NameName the capitals of five European countries.
OutlineOutline the main points of your presentation.
PointPoint to the area most affected by deforestation.
QuoteQuote a famous author to start your essay.
ReadRead the next chapter of the textbook for homework.
RecallRecall the important dates from the history lecture.
ReciteRecite the poem you memorized for the class.
RecognizeRecognize the flags of different nations in the quiz.
RecordRecord the observations from your experiment.
RepeatRepeat the French phrases to improve pronunciation.
ReproduceReproduce the painting technique demonstrated by the teacher.
ReviewReview the notes from today’s lecture.
SelectSelect the correct option in the multiple-choice test.
StateState your hypothesis in the science report.
StudyStudy the causes of the First World War.
TabulateTabulate the survey results in a spreadsheet.
TraceTrace the evolution of language in ancient civilizations.
WriteWrite a summary of the documentary you watched.

Understand

The Understand category in Bloom’s Taxonomy Chart Verbs, represents a cognitive level one step higher than remembering. Your students will understand with these verbs, meaning they will grasp the meaning of information rather than simply recalling it.

This skill is especially useful in comprehending concepts, interpreting ideas, and summarizing information in one’s own words. When you task your students to, for example, compare one thing with another, they demonstrate the ability to explain the significance of facts, describe relationships between concepts, and interpret information to create a cohesive understanding. 

Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs for the Understand category:

VerbSentence
AddAdd more examples to clarify your point.
ApproximateApproximate the total cost of your shopping list.
ArticulateArticulate your thoughts clearly during the presentation.
AssociateAssociate the historical events with their causes.
CharacterizeCharacterize the protagonist’s role in the novel.
ClarifyClarify the instructions before starting the experiment.
ClassifyClassify these animals based on their habitat types.
CompareCompare the two theories and note the differences.
ComputeCompute the total area of the land parcel.
ContrastContrast the economic policies of the two countries.
ConvertConvert the measurements from imperial to metric.
DefendDefend your thesis statement with adequate evidence.
DescribeDescribe the process of photosynthesis in plants.
DetailDetail the steps you followed in the experiment.
DifferentiateDifferentiate between qualitative and quantitative research.
DiscussDiscuss the implications of this study for future research.
DistinguishDistinguish the symptoms of these two diseases.
ElaborateElaborate on your plan for the project.
EstimateEstimate the time required to complete the task.
ExampleProvide an example to illustrate this concept.
ExplainExplain how the machine operates.
ExpressExpress your ideas on the topic.
ExtendExtend your essay to cover all aspects of the question.
ExtrapolateExtrapolate the data to predict future trends.
FactorFactor in all variables when solving the problem.
GeneralizeGeneralize the findings to a broader context.
GiveGive reasons for your choice.
InferInfer the author’s intent behind this statement.
InteractInteract with the software to understand its features.
InterpolateInterpolate to find the missing value.
InterpretInterpret the results of the experiment.
ObserveObserve the reaction and record your findings.
ParaphraseParaphrase the paragraph in your own words.
Picture graphicallyPicture graphically the rise and fall in temperature.
PredictPredict the outcome of the election.
ReviewReview the document for any errors.
RewriteRewrite the passage to improve clarity.
SubtractSubtract the expenses from your total income.
SummarizeSummarize the main points of the lecture.
TranslateTranslate the paragraph into Spanish.
VisualizeVisualize the structure of the molecule.

Apply

The Apply category in Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs signifies a cognitive level where learners are equipped with the ability to use their knowledge in practical, real-life scenarios. At a stage like this, understanding transitions into action. Students are then able to apply concepts, theories, and methodologies to overcome obstacles, solve problems, and address everyday challenges.

Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs for the Apply category:

VerbSentence
AcquireStudents need to acquire new skills for the project.
AdaptThey will adapt their strategies to solve complex problems.
AllocateAllocate resources effectively for the group assignment.
AlphabetizeThe librarian taught students to alphabetize books.
ApplyApply the learned theory to real-world scenarios.
AscertainAscertain the main idea from the text.
AssignThe teacher will assign roles for the class play.
AttainThey aim to attain proficiency in math.
AvoidAvoid common errors while coding.
Back upAlways back up your research data.
CalculateCalculate the area of the triangle.
CaptureCapture key points from the lecture.
ChangeChange the variables to observe different outcomes.
ClassifyClassify these chemicals based on their properties.
ComputeCompute the final scores from the test results.
ContrastContrast the two historical periods in your essay.
ConvertConvert the measurements from ounces to grams.
DefendDefend your hypothesis in the science fair.
DescribeDescribe the process of photosynthesis.
DetailDetail the steps involved in the experiment.
DifferentiateDifferentiate between renewable and non-renewable resources.
DiscernDiscern the main themes in the novel.
DiscoverDiscover new methods to approach the problem.
EmployEmploy various techniques to improve your writing.
ExerciseExercise caution while conducting experiments.
ExperimentExperiment with different colors in your art project.
ExploreExplore various cultures in your geography class.
ExpressExpress your opinions in the debate.
ExtractExtract the key information from the article.
GeneralizeGeneralize the findings from the survey.
HandleHandle the laboratory equipment carefully.
IllustrateIllustrate your answer with relevant examples.
ImplementImplement the new protocol in the study.
IncorporateIncorporate feedback into your next draft.
InterconvertInterconvert the units for international standards.
InterpolateInterpolate missing data in the chart.
InterpretInterpret the poem’s deeper meaning.
ManipulateManipulate the data to create a graph.
ModifyModify your hypothesis based on the findings.
OperateOperate the new software for the project.
PersonalizePersonalize your learning approach in the course.
PlotPlot the novel’s climax on the story arc.
PortrayPortray a historical character in the play.
PracticePractice your presentation multiple times.
PredictPredict the outcome of the experiment.
PreparePrepare a summary of the chapter.
PricePrice the products for the economics assignment.
ProcessProcess the survey data for analysis.
ProduceProduce a short film for the competition.
ProgramProgram a simple game using coding skills.
ProjectProject your findings on the screen.
ProvideProvide examples to support your theory.
RelateRelate the event to historical contexts.
Round offRound off the figures for simplicity.
SequenceSequence the events in chronological order.
ShowShow how to solve the equation.
SimulateSimulate a business scenario in class.
SketchSketch the design for your art project.
SolveSolve complex puzzles in the game.
SubscribeSubscribe to the theory after thorough research.
TabulateTabulate the results in a spreadsheet.
TranscribeTranscribe the interview for the project.
TranslateTranslate the document into another language.
UseUse the microscope to observe the cells.

Analyze

In the Analyze category in Bloom’s Taxonomy, learners will know more about the structure of information, breaking it down into constituent parts and discerning relationships. It is at a stage like this that individuals go beyond what they know and learn to be critical thinkers. 

You can indulge your students in activities within the “Analyze” level by teaching them to compare, contrast, categorize, and discern cause-and-effect relationships.

Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs for the Analyze category:

ActionSentence
AnalyzeWhen you analyze the data, look for patterns and trends that can inform your decision-making process.
ComparePlease compare the two solutions and identify their strengths and weaknesses.
ClassifyIt’s essential to classify the organisms correctly based on their genetic characteristics.
ContrastContrast the main themes of the two novels to highlight their differences.
DistinguishDistinguish between the various species of birds based on their distinct features.
InferFrom the evidence presented, we can infer that the experiment was successful.
SeparateSeparate the mixed substances into their individual components using the provided tools.
ExplainTake a moment to explain your reasoning behind choosing this particular approach.
SelectSelect the appropriate tools for the task at hand to ensure efficiency.
CategorizeCategorize the different types of rocks based on their geological characteristics.
ConnectConnect the concepts learned in class to real-world applications for a deeper understanding.
DifferentiateDifferentiate between the primary and secondary sources in your research.
DivideDivide the project into manageable tasks to facilitate a more organized workflow.
OrderOrder the elements in the periodic table based on their atomic numbers.
PrioritizePrioritize the tasks on your to-do list to focus on the most important ones first.
SurveySurvey the participants to gather feedback on their overall experience.
CalculateUse the formula to calculate the velocity of the moving object.
ConcludeAfter analyzing the data, conclude with a summary of your findings.
CorrelateCorrelate the variables to determine if there is a significant relationship between them.
DeduceFrom the given information, deduce the likely outcome of the experiment.
DeviseDevise a strategy to address the challenges identified during the planning phase.
DiagramDiagram the process to provide a visual representation of the workflow.
DissectDissect the argument to identify its key components and underlying assumptions.
EstimateEstimate the total cost of the project based on the provided budget constraints.
EvaluateEvaluate the effectiveness of the proposed solution in solving the problem.
ExperimentDesign and conduct an experiment to test the hypothesis.
FocusFocus on the main ideas to avoid getting lost in the details.
IllustrateUse examples to illustrate the concept and enhance understanding.
OrganizeOrganize the information in a logical sequence for better clarity.
OutlineOutline the main points of your presentation before starting to ensure a coherent structure.
PlanPlan your approach carefully to ensure a successful implementation.
QuestionEncourage students to question the assumptions underlying the theory.
TestTest the hypothesis through controlled experiments to validate your findings.

Evaluate

The Evaluate category in Bloom’s Taxonomy focuses on a cognitive level where students engage in critical thinking and engage in judgment of information. At this stage, students scratch their heads as they evaluate the validity, credibility, and relevance of new or old ideas, theories, or solutions.

In this level, students will weigh evidence, consider a situation from multiple perspectives, and form well-supported conclusions.

Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs for the Evaluate category:

VerbSentence
AppraiseAppraise the value of the old painting in your report.
AssessAssess the outcomes of the marketing campaign.
AuditAudit the company’s financial records for accuracy.
BlueprintBlueprint a strategy for the new business model.
CompareCompare the two novels for your literature assignment.
ConcludeConclude your essay with a strong summary of the arguments.
ContrastContrast classical and modern art in your presentation.
CounselCounsel the client on the best legal approach.
CriticizeCriticize the methodologies used in the research study.
DefendDefend your thesis against the panel’s questions.
DetectDetect any anomalies in the data set.
DiagnoseDiagnose the cause of the technical malfunction.
DiscriminateDiscriminate between fact and opinion in the news articles.
EstimateEstimate the project’s completion time.
EvaluateEvaluate the effectiveness of the new policy.
ExplainExplain your reasoning for the chosen solution.
GradeGrade the students’ assignments fairly.
HireHire the most qualified candidate for the job.
InterpretInterpret the implications of the survey results.
JudgeJudge the contest entries on their originality.
JustifyJustify your decision to pursue a different approach.
MeasureMeasure the success of the event.
PredictPredict the trends for the coming year.
PrescribePrescribe a course of action for the problem.
RankRank the candidates based on their qualifications.
RateRate the service from one to ten.
RecommendRecommend the best course of treatment.
ReleaseRelease your findings to the public.
SelectSelect the most relevant information for your report.
SummarizeSummarize the main points of the argument.
SupportSupport your claims with evidence.
TestTest the hypothesis with a controlled experiment.
ValidateValidate the authenticity of the historical document.
VerifyVerify the accuracy of the information provided.

Create

Finally, the highest cognitive level in Bloom’s Taxonomy – Create. This category pushes learners to generate original ideas, products, and  solutions. With these verbs and your help, your students will transcend previous knowledge, combining and synthesizing information to produce something completely new. 

Mastering this level demonstrates a profound comprehension of content and the ability to apply knowledge in a creative manner. 

Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs for the Create category:

VerbSentence
AbstractStudents were asked to abstract the main concepts from the lecture.
AnimateThe assignment was to animate a short story using digital tools.
ArrangeArrange the musical notes to create a harmonious melody.
AssembleThe students will assemble their robotics projects next week.
BudgetBudget your resources effectively for the event planning project.
CategorizeCategorize the artifacts in the museum exhibit.
CodeCode a simple program to solve the math problem.
CombineCombine different genres to create a unique piece of writing.
CompileCompile your research into a comprehensive report.
ComposeCompose a poem about your childhood memories.
ConstructConstruct a model of a sustainable house using recycled materials.
CopeDesign a strategy to cope with stress during exams.
CorrespondCreate an artwork that corresponds with the theme of nature.
CreateCreate a marketing campaign for a new product.
CultivateCultivate a garden in the schoolyard as part of a biology project.
DebugDebug the code to improve the software’s functionality.
DepictDepict the historical event in a vivid painting.
DesignDesign a website for the school’s annual cultural fest.
DevelopDevelop a business plan for a startup company.
DeviseDevise a new method for recycling plastics.
DictateDictate a story and turn it into an audiobook.
EnhanceEnhance the existing design to make it more user-friendly.
ExplainExplain a complex theory using a simple analogy.
FacilitateFacilitate a workshop on creative writing techniques.
FormatFormat the document to make it more visually appealing.
FormulateFormulate a hypothesis for your science project.
GeneralizeGeneralize the study’s findings to apply to a wider population.
GenerateGenerate a list of ideas for the group discussion.
HandleHandle the project management to ensure timely completion.
ImportImport data from various sources for the research project.
ImproveImprove the process to increase efficiency.
IncorporateIncorporate feedback from the survey into the new design.

Adding Your Touch to Bloom’s Taxonomy: Key Tips

As you integrate these verbs into your lesson plans, remember:

  • Be specific! Avoid using general verbs like ‘understand’ or ‘learn.’ For an enhanced effect, use precise verbs like ‘classify’ or ‘summarize.’
  • Personalize! Mix and match verbs to your liking from different categories to cover a wide range of cognitive skills.
  • Context is key. Align verbs with your lesson plans and to the appropriate cognitive level of your students.
  • Incorporate Interactive Learning. Incorporate interactive elements such as interactive quizzes in your lesson that align with each Bloom’s Taxonomy levels to elevate engagement and participation in the classroom.
  • Gamify Your Lesson! Combining gamification and Bloom’s Taxonomy teaching enhances learning outcomes by leveraging game elements to scaffold and reinforce different cognitive skills.
Pro Tip: Automate the process of classroom quiz generation based on Bloom's Taxonomy levels using ClassPoint AI - an AI designed to scan your PowerPoint content and create tailored questions based on Bloom's Taxonomy levels.

Final Thoughts

bloom's taxonomy verbs

There you have it, teachers! The ultimate collection of Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs, designed to enhance your teaching and your students’ learning. 

By sprinkling these verbs to your lesson plan, you’ll empower your students to reach great milestones in their learning journey. Remember, teaching is an art, and with the right tools, you can create a masterpiece.

Ready to transform your teaching? Download the comprehensive list of Bloom’s Taxonomy Verbs and start crafting unique lesson objectives that inspire and challenge the students of tomorrow.

Mikel Resaba

About Mikel Resaba

Mikel Resaba is a seasoned content strategist and writer specializing in EdTech. With over a decade of experience, Mikel has collaborated with startups and established companies alike to enhance digital learning experiences. Passionate about the transformative power of education technology, his writing offers valuable insights into effective e-learning practices, emerging trends, and the impact of digital tools on pedagogy. Mikel's work serves as a bridge between educators and technologists, aiming to foster environments where students and teachers can thrive.

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