What term describes a narrowly defined unit of grammar used as the focus of a lesson?

• A. Discrete item
• B. Lexical item
• C. Complex structure
• D. Clause

Answer: (A)

A single, well-defined grammar item chosen for teaching and practice in a lesson is described as a discrete item. This approach targets one specific feature—its form, meaning, and use—so learners can notice it, practice it in controlled contexts, and build accuracy before using it more freely. Treating a grammar point as a discrete item helps keep instruction focused and observable, making it easier to set clear aims and measure progress.

Lexical item refers to a unit of vocabulary, which shifts the focus away from grammar. A complex structure is broader and may encompass multiple elements, making it less suitable for a narrowly defined lesson focus. A clause is a larger syntactic unit that can involve various features, not necessarily the tightly scoped point you want to target in a single lesson. Therefore, describing the focus as a discrete item best matches the idea of teaching one specific grammar unit in isolation.