Which method of sequencing information begins with information that students are familiar with before introducing unfamiliar material?

The method of sequencing information that begins with familiar concepts before moving to unfamiliar material is known as the "known-to-unknown" approach. This teaching strategy capitalizes on learners' prior knowledge, helping them build a foundation from what they already understand. By connecting new ideas to existing knowledge, educators can make unfamiliar concepts more accessible and relatable.

This method is particularly effective because it reduces cognitive overload, as learners can anchor new information in familiar contexts. It fosters confidence and promotes better retention, as students can draw on their earlier experiences as reference points when tackling more complex or abstract topics. Instructors can utilize real-life examples and analogies that resonate with students, facilitating a smoother transition into new material.

In contrast, the other methods like step-by-step or whole-part-whole may not specifically emphasize leveraging prior knowledge before introducing new concepts, while simple-to-complex focuses on organizing information from basic to advanced without explicitly relating to what the students already know.