Simpson's Interpretation of Psychomotor Domain

Level in Taxonomy

Sample Outcomes 

Suggested Verbs

Perception

(Including the translation of perceived cues into action)

“recognizes a malfunction by the sound of the machine.”

“relates the taste of food to the need for seasoning.”

Choose, describe, detect, differentiate, distinguish, identify, isolate, relate, select, separate

Set

(Readiness to take a particular type of action, including mental set, physical set, and emotional set)

“demonstrates proper bodily stance for batting a ball.”

“describes the steps in administering an injection.”

Begin, display, explain, move, proceed, react, respond, show, start, volunteer

Guided Response

(Early stages of learning a complex skill and includes imitation and trial & error)

“applies a first aid bandage as demonstrated”

“determines best sequence for preparing a meal”

Assemble, build, calibrate, construct, dismantle, display, dissect, manipulate, measure, organize

Mechanism

(Learned responses have become habitual and the skill can be performed with competence and proficiency)

“sets up laboratory equipment”

“operates a caliper”

Same list as for guided response, with the skill being demonstrated independently and at a higher level of proficiency

Complex Overt Response

(Skillful performance of motor acts that involve complex patterns)

“operates a power saw safely and accurately”

“demonstrates correct form in the butterfly stroke”

Same list as above, again with greater skill, independence, and fluidity

Adaptation

(Skills that are developed to the extent that the student is able to adapt to meet changing or new circumstances)

“adjusts pressure of massage to muscle tenderness”

“modifies swimming stroke to counteract rough water”

Adapt, alter, change, rearrange, reorganize, revise, vary

Origination

(Creating new movement patterns to fit situation or new problems

“designs new dress style”

“creates new exercise for physical therapy patient”

Arrange, combine, compose, construct, create, design, originate