In forward chaining, which part of the task analysis is taught first, with the trainer completing the remaining steps?

• A. The first behavior in the task analysis
• B. The last behavior in the task analysis
• C. A random behavior
• D. All steps with prompts

Answer: (A)

Forward chaining starts with the first step of the task sequence. The learner is guided to initiate the task by performing that initial behavior, while the trainer completes the remaining steps. This approach builds a reliable starting point and sets up the chain so that, as the learner masters the first step, you add the next step and fade prompts, eventually transferring full control to the learner for the entire sequence. Choosing the last step would align with a backward or end-focused approach, which isn’t how forward chaining scaffolds learning. Randomly selecting a step or prompting all steps without transferring control also wouldn’t establish a step-by-step progression from the start.