Which step should be completed last when teaching a new skill in physical education?

• A. Clear verbal or written instructions on how to perform the skill
• B. Test the student to see if she can perform it correctly
• C. Watch the student apply the said skill through practice
• D. Perform a quick demonstration of the skill

Answer: (B)

Mastery-based skill instruction moves learners from understanding to performing with accuracy. After you model the skill and give clear instructions, students practice with feedback, refining technique through guided attempts. The final step is to test whether the student can perform the skill correctly, because this summative check confirms true mastery and reliable application in real situations. If you test too early, there isn’t enough practice or feedback for accurate performance, which isn’t a good measure of what the student can do independently. So, assessing whether the student can perform it correctly should come last, after demonstration, clear guidance, and ample guided practice.