Which term describes breaking a skill into segments before integrating?

Which term describes breaking a skill into segments before integrating?

• A. Scope and sequence
• B. Simplification
• C. Variable practice
• D. Part practice

Answer: (D)

Part practice involves breaking a skill into smaller segments and practicing those parts separately before combining them into the full movement. This approach helps learners build correct components, reduces cognitive load, and allows targeted feedback on each segment before the whole skill is integrated. For example, in a tennis forehand, you might practice the grip and stance, then the backswing, then the swing through contact, and finally put all the parts together in a full stroke. This method is especially useful for complex or technical skills where isolating errors in each segment makes it easier to correct them. Other terms describe adjusting practice conditions or planning curriculum, not the process of segmenting and then integrating the skill.

Part practice involves breaking a skill into smaller segments and practicing those parts separately before combining them into the full movement. This approach helps learners build correct components, reduces cognitive load, and allows targeted feedback on each segment before the whole skill is integrated. For example, in a tennis forehand, you might practice the grip and stance, then the backswing, then the swing through contact, and finally put all the parts together in a full stroke. This method is especially useful for complex or technical skills where isolating errors in each segment makes it easier to correct them. Other terms describe adjusting practice conditions or planning curriculum, not the process of segmenting and then integrating the skill.