Understand Webb's Depth of Knowledge (DOK) levels 1-4 with clear examples and question stems for each level. Learn how to balance DOK in your tests and quizzes.
Webb's Depth of Knowledge (DOK) measures the cognitive complexity of tasks. Unlike Bloom's Taxonomy which categorizes the type of thinking, DOK focuses on the depth of understanding required.
Recall facts, definitions, terms, or simple procedures. One correct response, no reasoning needed.
Make decisions, classify, compare, organize, or explain. More than one step, but path is clear.
Reason, plan, use evidence. No single correct answer — students must justify, analyze, or synthesize.
Extended investigation, multiple sources, complex analysis over time. Best suited for projects and research.
Formative: 40% DOK1, 40% DOK2, 20% DOK3. Summative: 20% DOK1, 35% DOK2, 35% DOK3, 10% DOK4.
DOK 1 Recall: remember, recognize, identify. DOK 2 Skills: compare, classify, sort. DOK 3 Strategic: analyze, justify, prove. DOK 4 Extended: synthesize, connect, research across contexts.
The DOK Wheel maps action verbs to each DOK level. Teachers use it as a quick-reference when writing assessment questions.