What instructional strategy allows students to visualize how to solve a problem step by step?

Explicit instruction is an instructional strategy that involves direct teaching of a skill or concept through a clearly defined process, making it beneficial for students who need to visualize problem-solving steps. This method typically includes modeling, guided practice, and independent practice. The teacher demonstrates how to approach a problem, breaking down the steps in a systematic way, which aids in student understanding.

By using explicit instruction, educators can ensure that students clearly grasp each step in the problem-solving process, enabling them to visualize how to approach similar problems in the future. This structured approach also allows for immediate feedback and the opportunity for students to ask questions, ensuring that they understand each step before moving on.

In contrast, other strategies like cooperative learning, peer tutoring, and differentiated instruction focus more on collaborative or personalized learning experiences rather than providing a clear, step-by-step approach to problem-solving. While these methods have their own merits, they do not specifically emphasize the visualization of problem-solving processes as effectively as explicit instruction does.