What instructional strategy involves providing students with tools based on their understanding of a topic?

Scaffolding is an instructional strategy that focuses on providing students with various supports and tools tailored to their individual understanding and needs regarding a specific topic. This method involves breaking down learning into manageable steps, allowing students to build on their prior knowledge and gradually gain a deeper comprehension of the subject matter.

By employing scaffolding techniques, educators create an environment where students can engage with challenging content while receiving the necessary assistance. This can include visual aids, graphic organizers, or guided questions that help students navigate the learning process. Ultimately, scaffolding encourages independence as students gain confidence and skills, allowing them to eventually tackle complex concepts without as much external support.

The effectiveness of scaffolding lies in its adaptability; as students demonstrate increased understanding, the instructor can gradually reduce the level of assistance, promoting self-sufficiency in their learning journey.