Which of the following is not one of the steps in the four-step method of instruction?

The four-step method of instruction includes preparation, presentation, and application as its core components. Each of these steps serves a specific purpose:

1. The preparation step involves getting learners ready for the content they will be engaging with, ensuring they have the necessary background or mindset.

2. The presentation step focuses on delivering information, concepts, or skills to the learners. This is where the instructor explains and demonstrates the material.

3. The application step allows students to practice and apply what they have learned, reinforcing the concepts and skills through hands-on activities or exercises.

The term "certification" does not belong to the recognized framework of the four-step method of instruction, as it typically refers to a process that verifies competence or skills rather than a part of the instructional sequence itself. This distinction is crucial for understanding the structure of effective instructional methods and their purposes.