What is the key characteristic of Least-to-Most Prompting?

Least-to-Most Prompting is a strategy designed to foster independence in skill acquisition by beginning with minimal support and gradually increasing the level of assistance as needed. This approach emphasizes encouraging the learner to engage with the task using their existing skills, which can lead to more effective learning and mastery over time.

When employing Least-to-Most Prompting, the practitioner identifies the level of prompt that the learner requires and starts with the least intrusive option. If the learner does not successfully engage with the task, the support can be gradually intensified—moving to more substantial prompts, such as verbal direction, gestural cues, or even physical assistance. This progression ensures that the learner has the opportunity to demonstrate independence and apply their skills without relying on excessive help from the outset.

This focus on promoting independent skill use aligns with the principles of behavior analysis, which prioritize the development of autonomy in learners, therefore making option A the most fitting choice in this context.