Correct option is A
When students verbalize their thought process while solving a problem, it helps in organizing their thoughts, leading to a clearer understanding of the problem and its potential solutions. This process of thinking aloud acts as a cognitive tool that aids in problem-solving. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. Encouraging students to think aloud when they struggle with a problem is a beneficial practice as it helps them structure their thinking and approach the problem systematically.