What is the purpose of scaffolded instruction?

The purpose of scaffolded instruction is to model and encourage successful reading strategies. This approach involves breaking learning into manageable chunks and providing support at each stage. By demonstrating effective reading strategies, educators can help students understand the steps needed to tackle texts that may be challenging. This gradual release of responsibility ensures that as students become more proficient, they can eventually apply these strategies independently.

Scaffolded instruction emphasizes the importance of guided support, allowing educators to tailor their teaching to meet the specific needs of students. By initially providing structured guidance, educators can build students’ confidence and skills in reading, ultimately enabling them to approach complex texts with greater ease and understanding. The goal is to foster independence in learners while ensuring they have the tools required to navigate increasingly challenging material.