Which of the following is NOT a basic component of direct instruction?

• A. Setting clear goals for students and ensuring understanding
• B. Presenting a sequence of well-organized assignments
• C. Allowing students to choose topics and pace themselves
• D. Giving students frequent opportunities to practice what they have learned

Answer: (C)

Direct instruction centers on teacher-led, explicit teaching with a clear objective, a carefully planned sequence, and frequent opportunities for practice with feedback to move students toward mastery. Setting clear goals and checking for understanding fits this approach, as does presenting a well-organized sequence of tasks and providing ample practice to reinforce learning. Allowing students to choose topics and pace themselves does not fit direct instruction because it shifts control to learners and disrupts the teacher-directed, standardized pacing and scope that direct instruction relies on. In short, that option reflects a student-centered or self-paced approach rather than a direct-instruction component.