Higher order questioning – UGC NET Question

Statements A and B correctly distinguish lower-order and higher-order questions in terms of recall and complex thinking. Statement C is true because combining both types allows teachers to build from basic understanding to deeper learning. Statement E is also true since group discussions and project work are suitable contexts for encouraging higher-order questioning. Statement D is false because large classes can still benefit from higher-order questions, and F is false because simply asking such questions does not guarantee critical thinking without appropriate support. Therefore, the correct set of statements is A, B, C and E only, making option C the right answer.

Option A:
Option A includes A and B, both true, but omits C and E, which further explain the value of mixing question types and using higher-order questions in interactive activities. The absence of these true statements means the set is incomplete. Hence A and B only cannot be the correct answer.

Option B:
Option B extends A and B to include C, which is correct, but still leaves out E, a true statement about contexts for higher-order questioning. Because a complete set of correct statements must also include E, A, B and C only is not adequate. Therefore option B is not correct.

Option C:
Option C contains A, B, C and E, all of which accurately describe the roles and uses of different levels of questioning. It rightly excludes D and F, which either unduly limit higher-order questions or assume they automatically produce critical thinking. Since it includes all and only the true statements, A, B, C and E only is the correct answer.

Option D:
Option D includes B, C, D and E but introduces D, which asserts that only lower-order questions should be used in large classes, a claim that underestimates students' capacity and the teacher's skill in managing time. The presence of D, a false statement, makes this option invalid. Thus B, C, D and E only cannot be accepted.

Option E collects A, D, E and F but contains D and F, both of which misrepresent higher-order questioning in terms of when it should be used and what it guarantees. Even though A and E are true, the inclusion of these two false statements undermines the set. Therefore A, D, E and F only is not the right answer.

Option F groups C, E and F and mistakenly treats F as correct, suggesting that merely asking higher-order questions always yields critical thinking. This ignores factors such as scaffolding, classroom climate and learner readiness. As a result, C, E and F only is not a valid combination.