Teaching Strategies
Scaffolding, not simplifying
Scaffolding is temporary support that lets learners perform beyond their independent level and is then removed. Its forms include modelling the task, thinking aloud, demonstrating with a worked example, providing substitution tables and sentence frames, using visuals and graphic organisers (tables, timelines, Venn diagrams, flow charts, concept maps), key-word lists, glossaries, and guided questioning. Crucially, scaffolding supports language while keeping the cognitive demand high; simplifying the content reduces challenge without teaching language.
Questioning is a core strategy. Display questions (known answers) check knowledge; referential questions (genuine information gaps) generate real communication. Plan higher-order questions and give wait time - additional seconds are especially valuable in a second language. Encourage learners to justify and elaborate ('Why do you think so?').
Focus on form works best when it arises from content: noticing a structure in a model text, a brief explicit explanation, then using it in the task (a 'language loop' within a subject lesson). Recasting, clarification requests and elicitation provide corrective feedback without derailing the subject.
Cognitive discourse functions help learners use academic language for purposes: classify, define, describe, explain, compare, hypothesise, evaluate, conclude. Teaching the function gives learners a frame for both talk and writing.
Strategy instruction develops autonomy: predicting, skimming for gist, using context to guess meaning, using a dictionary efficiently, planning and monitoring a task, self-correcting, and asking for clarification.
Traps: equating scaffolding with simplification or with 'easier language'; assuming L1 must be banned (judicious, planned code-switching or translanguaging can build understanding); confusing display and referential questions; options that describe strategies without any language-learning function.
Rule of thumb: if support is permanent, it is not scaffolding - plan when and how it will be withdrawn.