What is scaffolding?

Scaffolding in the context of primary language teaching refers to the structured support and guidance provided by educators to facilitate student learning and language acquisition. This approach involves breaking down complex language concepts into more manageable parts and gradually reducing assistance as learners build competence and confidence. Techniques such as modeling, using visual aids, prompting, and providing feedback are integral to scaffolding, allowing students to connect new knowledge to existing understanding. By tailoring instructional support to meet individual needs, scaffolding helps students progressively achieve greater language proficiency while fostering an environment that encourages active participation and independent learning.