What is the first consideration when planning any instructional activity?

Determining the overall objectives and standards is the foundational step in planning any instructional activity because it guides the entire instructional design process. Establishing clear objectives provides a framework for what the instructor hopes to achieve and sets expectations for the learners. It helps both the instructor and the learners understand the purpose of the activity and what knowledge or skills should be gained by the end.

By establishing these objectives, instructional strategies, assessments, and learning activities can be aligned effectively. This alignment ensures that the teaching methods employed are relevant and focused on achieving the desired outcomes. Identifying objectives first allows for a coherent structure, facilitating progression through the learning material and ultimately making the instruction more effective and purposeful.