In which area would the students most likely benefit from explicit instruction?

Students would most likely benefit from explicit instruction in blending strategies because this skill lays the foundational aspect of reading development. Blending involves the ability to combine individual sounds into a coherent word, which is essential for young readers and those learning to decode. Explicit instruction in this area provides clear, systematic guidelines and strategies that help students sound out letters and blend them together, crucial for developing their decoding skills.

Focusing on explicit instruction means that teachers can break down the blending process into manageable steps, model the process, and provide guided practice, which is especially beneficial for beginners who might struggle with this concept. When students receive direct teaching on how to blend sounds effectively, they gain confidence and an important skill that supports their overall reading development.