These learning outcomes go one step beyond the simple remembering of material and represent the lowest level of understanding. For example, asking a student to define a term in his own words is at the comprehension level. Application refers to the ability to use learned material in a new and concrete situation. This may include the application of such things as rules, methods, concepts, principles, laws, and theories. As an example, most mathematics objectives which involve solving problems are at the application level.
Analysis refers to the ability to break down a concept into parts.
This may include the identification of the parts and the analysis of the relationships between parts. Learning outcomes at the analysis level require an understanding of both content and the structure of the material. As an example, asking students to compare and contrast two characters in a story is at the level of analysis. Synthesis refers to the ability to form something new. Learning outcomes in this area stress creativity and originality.