Which instructional strategy focuses on direct modeling of letter sounds?

The correct choice emphasizes explicit instruction, which involves direct teaching methods where the instructor models the sounds of letters clearly and systematically. This strategy ensures that learners understand how to pronounce each letter and the corresponding sounds associated with them. Explicit instruction is characterized by clear, structured lessons where teachers provide examples and demonstrate the processes needed to understand the material, thus allowing students to see how to accurately produce the sounds.

Unlike implicit instruction, which may lead students to discover letter sounds on their own without direct guidance, explicit instruction provides the necessary support and clarity, making it easier for students to grasp foundational literacy skills. Other options focus on different learning methodologies—guided discovery emphasizes exploration and problem-solving, while independent exploration allows students to learn at their own pace, often lacking the direct modeling that explicit instruction provides. Thus, explicit instruction is particularly effective in teaching specific skills like letter sounds.