NCTE 2022

English language classrooms should include rich content and rigorous tasks that represent the demands learners face using English outside of our classrooms. Learners may have varying levels of readiness for these classroom tasks, though. In this session, we explore the many ways that we can scaffold classroom activities in both online and face-to-face environments in order to optimize learning for everyone. What exactly does scaffolding in the language classroom mean? We will see how teachers can build on learners’ prior knowledge, promote supportive classroom interactions among learners, and provide a variety of language supports and tools to assure success for learners with varying backgrounds, levels, and needs. Examples of scaffolding techniques for beginning through advanced levels are provided and participants consider applications to their settings.