Which statement explains Merrill's second principle related to activating existing knowledge?

Merrill's second principle emphasizes the importance of activating existing knowledge as a foundational aspect of learning. This principle asserts that learners benefit significantly when they can recall or connect their prior knowledge and experiences to new information. By engaging in this process, students can better understand and integrate new concepts because they are able to relate them to what they already know.

This activation of prior knowledge helps in building a scaffold on which new learning can be placed, making it more meaningful and easier to retain. When students draw on their past experiences, they can make connections that facilitate deeper understanding and application of new material. This principle underlines the significance of recognizing and leveraging what learners already know to enhance the educational experience.

In contrast, while demonstrating new knowledge, providing examples, and engaging in critical thinking are all important instructional strategies, they do not specifically focus on the activation of prior knowledge, which is the core of this principle.