Levels of Thinking

by David G. Kamper, M.D.
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In Washington High School English Class 1951-1953 Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Miss Inez Strohm taught us many advanced English topics. One of the more memorable ones concerned the levels of thinking.

In ascending order of complexity they were:

						Creation
					Critique
				Analysis
			Contrast
		Comparison
	Description
Observation

                                              

We were to illustrate each level of thinking in seven sequential themes. The early levels of thinking were easier to do. For creativity everyone blocked on it initially, but then creativity came with a more imaginative effort.

All of these levels of thinking we go through, sometimes consciously and sometimes without realizing it, in order to create.

Creativity is traumatic in its production so that many people do not want to endure the discomfort that accompanies it.

Creativity is boundless. It continues to grow and renew itself.

Creativity is ultimately the most satisfying endeavor.

Lesson learned 62 years ago.