Scaffolding and fading are teaching strategies that help students learn by providing support and gradually removing it. The goal is to help students become independent learners.  

Scaffolding: 

• What it is – A teaching technique that provides temporary support to help students understand concepts and become more independent. 

• How it works -Teachers break down lessons into smaller parts, and gradually reduce support as students learn new skills.  

• Benefits – Creates a positive learning environment where students feel supported and can ask questions.  

• Examples - hints, prompts, feedback, examples, models, graphic organizers, checklists, and step-by-step guides.  

• Purpose - helps students build on what they already know to learn new skills.  

Hard scaffolding is a pre-planned support, while soft scaffolding is a dynamic, situation-specific support. Both types of scaffolding can be used in education to help students learn.  

Hard scaffolding:  

• A pre-planned support that is often embedded in learning environments. 

• Can be technology-based. 

• Can be anticipated and planned in advance. 

Soft scaffolding: 

• A dynamic, situation-specific support that is provided by a teacher or peer. 

• Can be provided “on-the-fly”. 

• Can be based on just-in-time feedback. 

Fading: 

• What it is - gradually removing scaffolding as students become more competent.  

• Purpose – helps students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of self-efficacy. 

Examples of scaffolding: 

• Task scaffolding: Structuring activities to make them more achievable, such as reducing the number of steps required.  

• Graphic scaffolding: Using charts, tables, and graphic organizers to communicate concepts or show relationships.  

• Visual scaffolding: Using a task planner or other visual representation.  

• Verbal scaffolding: A teacher correcting a misconception at a student’s desk.  

• Written scaffolding: Using a writing frame or other written representation.  

How to use scaffolding and fading: 

• Break down learning objectives: Break down learning objectives into manageable steps.  

• Provide clear instructions: Provide clear instructions and examples to guide students.  

• Use modelling: Model how to apply new concepts in practice.  

• Provide feedback: Provide timely feedback and encouragement to reinforce learning. 

• Fade at an appropriate pace: Fade at a pace that allows students to transition to independent practice without too much difficulty. 

This blog was written by Bretta Townend-Jowitt, Education Consultant and Trainer.