Which of the following is an example of scaffolding in instruction?

• A. Modeling a problem with guided prompts.
• B. Independent practice with no prompts.
• C. A test.
• D. Silence.

Answer: (A)

Scaffolding in instruction means providing temporary supports that help students perform a task slightly beyond what they can do independently, with the aim of gradually removing those supports as they gain proficiency. Modeling a problem with guided prompts embodies this idea because the teacher demonstrates the approach and uses prompts to steer thinking, giving students just enough structure to reach the solution. As students become more competent, those prompts can be reduced, promoting independent problem solving.

Independent practice with no prompts lacks the supportive structure scaffolding provides, a test is an assessment rather than a teaching support, and silence offers no guidance at all.