Depth of Knowledge (DOK) Chart
This Depth of Knowledge chart describes DOK levels 1 to 4 in a table, with what each level asks of students, typical verbs and example tasks. Page 2 is a planner for writing one question or task for each level.
- Grade Level
- K to Grade 12
- Pages
- 2
- Formats
- PDF, Google Docs, Word
- Paper Size
- US Letter and A4
- Checked By
- Milo, Classroom Teacher
- Last Updated
- October 2026
Depth of Knowledge (DOK) Chart Example
One question per level for a 4th grade water cycle lesson, from recalling the terms to designing an investigation.
What's in the Depth of Knowledge (DOK) Chart
Four DOK Levels
Recall, skills and concepts, strategic thinking and extended thinking in one table.
Verbs and Examples
Each level lists typical verbs and example tasks you can adapt for your grade.
Question Planner
Page 2 has Lesson, Grade and Date lines and a row to write a question for each level.
Editable Versions
Edit the Word or Google Docs file before you print, or type straight into the PDF.
How to Use the DOK Chart
Read the Levels Together
Go through the four rows with your team and talk about what students do at each level.
Sort Your Tasks
List the tasks in tomorrow's lesson and match each one to a level using the descriptions.
Check the Verb Against the Task
Remember that a verb alone does not set the level. Look at what students must do with the content.
Plan One Question per Level
On page 2, write a question or task for each of the four levels before you teach the lesson.
Aim for Levels 2 and 3
Check that most of the lesson's work sits at levels 2 and 3, and rework a task that sits too low.
Depth of Knowledge Chart Questions
More Reference Charts for Teachers
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Other Templates
Plan the Lessons Behind the Chart in EMStudio
Lesson plans, standards and grades in one app built by a teacher. Free to start.
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