What are the two basic types of oral questions in instruction?

The classification of oral questions into two basic types is best captured in the distinction between facts and higher order thinking skills (HOTS). Fact-based questions generally assess a learner's ability to recall specific information, such as dates, definitions, or fundamental concepts. These questions are straightforward and typically have a single correct answer.

On the other hand, higher order thinking skills questions go beyond mere recall; they require analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of information. These types of questions encourage students to think critically, draw connections between concepts, and apply their knowledge in different contexts. This categorization not only helps instructors gauge the depth of student understanding but also stimulates engagement and promotes deeper learning.

The other options, while they may categorize oral questions in some way, do not encapsulate the foundational distinction in questioning techniques as effectively as the fact versus higher order thinking skills framework. For instance, simple vs. complex may reflect varying levels of difficulty but lacks the educational focus on the cognitive processes involved. Clarification vs. higher order thinking skills mixes the purpose of questions with the type of cognitive engagement, which does not highlight the essential nature of basic question types.