Correct me if necessary, but it seems bookworm is commenting on the order of the drills as much as the mode of engine failure.
I have just been required by my boss to start teaching students to identify before maximising power, and I don't like it - it teaches them that identifying a failed engine is more important than maximising power to stay in the air longer. And yes, I think it is done purely to satisfy the examiner so s/he can remove the clipboard.
The way I'm accustomed to teaching the EFATO is to ensure that maximum power is applied and gear & flap is up before thinking about which engine has failed.
I believe it instils a more thoughtful response, and is less likely to result in the wrong engine being shut down (because you've forgotten the identify while doing the maximise / minimise part of the drill.)
O8