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Stimulus

The Stimulus item type is used to present contextual information, such as instructions, passages, graphics, or data, that multiple questions will reference. It does not include any interaction or scoring, and students do not respond directly to it. Stimuli are best used in multi-part items where several questions are authored in the same item.

Key Characteristics​

  • Displays non-interactive content only—no responses or scoring.
  • Can include:
    • Text instructions or passages.
    • Images or diagrams.
    • Charts, tables, or multimedia.

When delivered, the stimulus appears above or beside the question(s) it supports, providing shared context.

Instructional Connection​

Stimulus items are ideal for diagrams, or data sets that require students to interpret and apply information across one or several related tasks.

Authoring a Stimulus​

From the item editor, click on:

  1. Click on +Question.
  2. From the list of question types, select Stimulus.

Enter the Stimulus​

In the Prompt field, enter the resource or instructions that students will reference. This can be text-based, such as a passage or directions, or image-based, such as a diagram, chart, or map.

Save the Stimulus​

Click Save to store your item in Studio.

  • You can now add one or more questions that reference the stimulus, or leave it as-is to serve as non-scored instructional context for students.
tip

Even without attached questions, a stimulus can enhance understanding by providing background, visual reference, or reading material for broader learning tasks.