What instructional method focuses on linking new material to what students already know?

The correct answer emphasizes a teaching approach that encourages students to find connections between new information and their existing knowledge. Discovery learning engages students actively, allowing them to explore concepts and ideas in a way that builds upon their prior experiences. This method fosters critical thinking and promotes a deeper understanding of the material as students construct knowledge through exploration and inquiry.

In contrast, other instructional methods have different focuses. For instance, drill and practice primarily emphasizes repetition and memorization of content, which does not necessarily involve linking new concepts to previous knowledge. Inquiry-based learning, while also centered on student engagement and exploration, often focuses more on guiding students to ask questions and seek answers rather than directly relating new material to what they already understand. Direct instruction relies more on explicit teaching and structured information delivery, which can be effective for conveying knowledge but may not inherently prioritize connecting new ideas to students' previous experiences.