What does the term "scaffolding" refer to in literacy instruction?

The term "scaffolding" in literacy instruction refers to providing temporary support structures to help students understand complex concepts. This educational practice is designed to assist learners as they develop new skills and knowledge, effectively guiding them through the learning process. Initially, the instructor or facilitator offers structured support, which may include hints, modeling, or breaking down tasks into manageable steps. As students gain confidence and competence, this support is gradually withdrawn, allowing them to gradually take on more responsibility for their learning. This approach is particularly effective because it aligns with the principles of constructivist learning theories, where students build understanding through guided experiences and progressively increase their independence and mastery of literacy skills.