In a math lesson for beginning ELLs, a teacher uses sentence stems and visuals, then guided practice and independent work. Which instructional practice does this sequence illustrate?

In a math lesson for beginning ELLs, a teacher uses sentence stems and visuals, then guided practice and independent work. Which instructional practice does this sequence illustrate?

• A. Differentiated Instruction
• B. Scaffolding
• C. Flipped Classroom
• D. Cooperative Learning

Answer: (B)

This sequence demonstrates scaffolding: the teacher starts with structured supports—sentence stems and visuals—to help beginning language learners access the math content. Then guided practice provides practice with guidance, and finally independent work asks students to apply what they’ve learned on their own. The supports are gradually reduced as students become more capable, which is the essence of scaffolding. Differentiated Instruction would focus on tailoring tasks for different learners, the Flipped Classroom changes where instruction happens (home vs. class), and Cooperative Learning emphasizes student collaboration. The described gradual release of support fits scaffolding best.

This sequence demonstrates scaffolding: the teacher starts with structured supports—sentence stems and visuals—to help beginning language learners access the math content. Then guided practice provides practice with guidance, and finally independent work asks students to apply what they’ve learned on their own. The supports are gradually reduced as students become more capable, which is the essence of scaffolding.

Differentiated Instruction would focus on tailoring tasks for different learners, the Flipped Classroom changes where instruction happens (home vs. class), and Cooperative Learning emphasizes student collaboration. The described gradual release of support fits scaffolding best.