What type of question does Mr. Rafael aim to ask to promote higher-order thinking among his students regarding population expansion in Texas?

Mr. Rafael's focus on asking predictive questions about future implications is an effective strategy to promote higher-order thinking among his students. Predictive questions encourage students to analyze current trends and engage in critical thinking regarding the consequences of population expansion. By contemplating how population growth might affect various aspects of Texas, such as economic development, resource allocation, or urban planning, students are challenged to synthesize information and formulate educated guesses about future scenarios.

This type of questioning not only requires understanding of the current material but also calls for the application of that knowledge in a forward-thinking context. Engaging in this kind of analysis fosters deeper comprehension and allows students to connect theoretical concepts to real-world situations, thereby enhancing their critical thinking skills.