Which statement correctly differentiates open-ended and closed-ended questions with an example?

Which statement correctly differentiates open-ended and closed-ended questions with an example?

• A. Open-ended questions invite discussion; example: What are your thoughts on the proposal?
• B. Open-ended questions invite yes/no answers; example: Do you approve the proposal?
• C. Closed-ended questions invite discussion; example: What are your thoughts on the proposal?
• D. Closed-ended questions require brief answers; example: Do you approve the proposal?

Answer: (A)

Open-ended questions aim to elicit fuller responses, inviting explanation, reasoning, and discussion rather than a simple yes or no. The statement that best differentiates them uses an open-ended prompt—“What are your thoughts on the proposal?”—which requires the respondent to elaborate, share opinions, and provide details. This showcases the key trait of open-ended questions: they encourage dialogue and depth. The other statements don’t capture this distinction. A question that asks for a yes/no answer points toward a closed-ended format, not open-ended. A claim that closed-ended questions invite discussion reverses their purpose. And while a closed-ended question can yield a brief answer, the defining difference lies in whether the response is open to elaboration or limited to a concise reply, which the provided example clearly demonstrates.

Open-ended questions aim to elicit fuller responses, inviting explanation, reasoning, and discussion rather than a simple yes or no. The statement that best differentiates them uses an open-ended prompt—“What are your thoughts on the proposal?”—which requires the respondent to elaborate, share opinions, and provide details. This showcases the key trait of open-ended questions: they encourage dialogue and depth.

The other statements don’t capture this distinction. A question that asks for a yes/no answer points toward a closed-ended format, not open-ended. A claim that closed-ended questions invite discussion reverses their purpose. And while a closed-ended question can yield a brief answer, the defining difference lies in whether the response is open to elaboration or limited to a concise reply, which the provided example clearly demonstrates.