Which statement best reflects a guiding principle of direct instruction?

• A. Direct instruction encourages discovery without guidance
• B. Every child can learn if he is taught, and teachers can be successful when provided with effective programs
• C. Learning is entirely incidental
• D. Instruction should minimize teacher input

Answer: (B)

Direct instruction rests on the belief that all students can learn when teaching is explicit, structured, and supported by an effective program. The statement that all children can learn if they are taught, and that teachers can be successful when provided with proven programs, captures that idea: it emphasizes clear teaching, goal-focused lessons, and the use of evidence-based curricula and supports that help teachers succeed with every learner.

This fits directly with direct instruction, which relies on deliberate lesson design, modeling, guided practice, and frequent checks for understanding to ensure students master the material.

The other ideas don’t align with direct instruction: learning is not seen as something that happens only through discovery without guidance; instruction should not minimize teacher input; and learning is not treated as entirely incidental.