What is the primary reason for Ms. Davis to explain proper lab procedures before group work?

Ms. Davis's decision to explain proper lab procedures before group work primarily serves to promote students' organizational skills. When lab procedures are clearly communicated, students learn how to follow a systematic approach, which is crucial for conducting experiments effectively and safely. This instruction helps them understand the structure of scientific inquiry, including how to set up experiments, manage time efficiently, and coordinate tasks within their groups.

By establishing clear procedures, Ms. Davis is providing students with a framework that not only enhances their ability to work collaboratively but also ensures that the goals of the lab activities are met. This foundation is essential for developing the organizational skills necessary for successful scientific exploration and collaboration in a lab environment. In contrast, while assessing prior knowledge, demonstrating a hands-on experiment, or enhancing critical thinking are all important aspects of education, they do not directly address the key objective of providing clear guidance for organizational and procedural skills in the lab setting.