Task analysis is best described as breaking a task into smaller steps to teach a student. Which option correctly identifies this term?

• A. Task analysis
• B. Modeling
• C. Chaining
• D. Prompting

Answer: (A)

Breaking down a complex skill into its component steps so you can teach each part in sequence is task analysis. This method lets you list the exact steps, order them logically, and plan which prompts or cues are needed at each stage, making it easier for a student to master the whole task. For example, teaching hand washing by outlining steps like turning on the faucet, wetting hands, applying soap, lathering, rinsing, drying, and turning off the faucet provides a clear, teachable sequence. Task analysis lays the groundwork for teaching that sequence; when you’re ready to teach the steps one after another, you might use chaining. Modeling demonstrates the whole task, and prompting supplies cues to guide performance, but breaking the task into steps itself is task analysis.