Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

Which method is used in explicit instruction?

1. Students select their topics of study

2. Guided practice with structured frameworks

3. Peer-led instruction without teacher involvement

4. Randomized assessments of student performance

The correct answer is: Guided practice with structured frameworks

The use of guided practice with structured frameworks is an essential characteristic of explicit instruction. This method provides students with clear, direct teaching of concepts and skills, which is a cornerstone of explicit instruction. In this approach, teachers model the desired behavior or strategy, breaking down information into manageable parts, and guiding students through practice opportunities where they apply what they have learned. During guided practice, the teacher closely monitors students' performance, offering feedback and support as needed to reinforce understanding and skills acquisition. This helps ensure that students are not only receiving information but are actively engaged in the learning process, leading to deeper comprehension and retention. Other methods, such as students selecting topics of study, peer-led instruction without teacher involvement, or randomized assessments of student performance, do not align with the structured, teacher-directed approach that defines explicit instruction. These methods may promote student agency or collaboration but lack the clear instructional guidance and practice that is essential for developing specific skills in a systematic way.