Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Exam

What does independent practice involve in a classroom setting?

1. Practicing skills and strategies before they are taught

2. Reinforcing taught skills and strategies as part of a unit

3. Learning through group collaboration only

4. Observing peers without engagement

The correct answer is: Reinforcing taught skills and strategies as part of a unit

Independent practice is a crucial part of the learning process in a classroom setting, as it allows students to apply and reinforce the skills and strategies that have already been taught by the teacher. This phase comes after guided practice, where students have had the opportunity to work with the teacher's support and feedback. During independent practice, students are expected to work autonomously, demonstrating their understanding and mastery of the concepts learned. This autonomy helps solidify the students' knowledge and confidence, promoting retention and the ability to use the skills in various contexts. It also allows teachers to assess individual student understanding and provide necessary support where gaps are evident. Practicing skills and strategies before they are taught does not align with the concept of independent practice, as this would imply a lack of prior instruction. Learning through group collaboration focuses on social and cooperative aspects of learning rather than individual demonstration of skills, while observing peers without engagement does not contribute to personal skill development or understanding. Each incorrect option distinguishes itself from the idea of independent practice, which is centered on student engagement with previously taught material.