Sedgwick Middle School
Essential Questions 
We have looked at six types of questions based on the thinking skills required. The first three -
knowledge, comprehension and application - are often needed to construct an answer to the final
three - analysis, synthesis and evaluation. For example, in order to produce an answer to the
following question of the synthesis type, several knowledge, comprehension and application
questions must first be answered.

       Essential Question
  
     Smoking among teenagers is rising. Although there is agreement that something
        must be done to stop the increase in smoking, there is little agreement about how
        to do that. You are part of a team of middle school students asked to recommend a
        plan of attack on this national health problem. Prepare a persuasive presentation
        that lays out your recommendations based on your research and your knowledge of
        how teenagers can be influenced.
           
        Smaller Questions
        How many teens smoke?
        What is the rate of increase yearly?
        Has the increase been steady?
        What are the health risks to teens?
        How much do cigarettes cost?
        Where do teens get cigarettes?
        Are there successful programs that we could learn from?

    Characteristics of Essential Questions
   
   cannot be answered with statements of facts
        big questions often dealing with real life situations
        no right or wrong answer as long as answer based on research and can be justified
        often debatable

Based on a format developed by Muriel_Gaynor@whps.org
Maintained by Lynne_Hawkins@whps.org

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West Hartford Public Schools
Last Updated 11/19/2008