STANDARD VERBS TO DESCRIBE HUMAN CAPABILITIES
WITH EXAMPLES OF
OBJECTIVES INCORPORATING ACTION VERBS
CAPABILITY
CAPABILITY VERB
EXAMPLE
Cognitive Skill
Facts
States
Given a list of the 50 states and a random list of all 50 capitals, the student will STATE
the capitals by writing the number beside each state in the blank corresponding to the
appropriate state capital. The student is allowed five minutes.
Concrete Concept
Identifies
Given a set of 30 color slides, the student will IDENTIFY types of white blood cells as
neutrophils, lymphocites, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils by writing the name of
the cell on the line corresponding to the slide number.
Defined Concept
Classifies
Each student is given 15 descriptions (1-3 sentences in length) of tasks completed by
each of the three branches of government. Students CLASSIFY each description as
either executive, judicial, or legislative by writing E, J, or L next to each description.
Rule (Principle)
Demonstrates
Presented with 10 problems requiring the computation of the area of trapezoids,
DEMONSTRATE that the area of the trapezoid equals ½ (base)(height) by showing
all calculations. Rule will be used from memory and the task is to be completed in
30 minutes. Calculators may not be used.
Problem Solving
Generates
Given the clinical history, blood count results, and a bone marrow to review, the student
will GENERATE an accurate diagnosis of the hematological disorder by writing the
diagnosis on a standard diagnostic form.
Psychomotor Skill
Executes
When presented with a basketball and basketball hoop, the student will EXECUTE
a successful shot by throwing the basketball into the hoop from a distance of 15 feet.
Attitude (Affective)
Chooses
Given the opportunity to freely select foods that promote good dental health, the student
CHOOSES to eat fruits and vegetables rather than cakes, candies, and pastries during
school breaks.