Asking Good Questions: Memory Questions

Question Types: Level 1—Memory

Memory level questions are those to which you will most likely find answers in sources such as books, web sites, and other reference materials. Asking this type of question provides background for the subject. These questions bring forth simple reproduction of facts, formulae, or other items of remembered content.

Thought processes involved while asking and answering these questions are naming, defining, identifying, designating, or giving yes/no responses.

Memory questions usually begin with these words:

Who...

What...

Where...

When...

Examples of memory questions:

When did Richard III reign?

What games were played during the ancient Greek Olympics?

Who developed the planetary model of the atom?

Where is ____ on a map?

Based on: Ciardiello, Angelo. (1998). "Did you ask a good question today? Alternative cognitive and metacognitive strategies." Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy. 42, 210-219. Used and modified with permission, 2003.

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