When teachers hear the word scaffolding, it is often interpreted as simplifying learning so students can be successful. James Fester challenged that interpretation during a recent podcast exploring rigor and scaffolding. He pointed out that effective scaffolding does not remove challenge; it supports students in engaging with challenging learning that they could not yet accomplish […]

Rigor doesn’t mean more work, and it doesn’t mean figuring it out on your own without support. It should mean achievement at a level just outside of a student’s ability to do things unaided. Just like temporary building support structures, scaffolds for learners are designed to provide access to rigorous learning for all. We want […]

 Acceleration and equity require teachers to provide ALL students with engagement in on grade-level or above, complex learning tasks. Too little or too much scaffolding prevents students from gaining the needed learning opportunities. Consider when you might be rescuing students rather than scaffolding. Consider why just-in-time scaffolding is important. Read the article, “Just-in-Time vs […]

In this week’s episode of the Steve Barkley Ponders Out Loud podcast, Steve ponders “Reflecting on Scaffolding.” Listen as Steve discusses the level of structure and guidance, or “scaffolding”, needed to support student learning. Subscribe to the Steve Barkley Ponders Out Loud podcast on iTunes or visit BarkleyPD.com to find new episodes. Thanks for listening! […]