What are some examples of scaffolding in math?

The best examples of scaffolding in math classrooms are techniques that systematically guide students toward proficiency in a particular math skill. Here are some of the ways to meet math students where they are and guide them towards a goal:

  • Break a math problem into smaller steps.
  • Demonstrate how to work a problem while verbalizing how to complete each step.
  • Work problems on the board with student participation.
  • Put students in pairs or groups to practice with peers.
  • Start with the simplest version of an equation and gradually increase the difficulty level.
  • Allow students to use physical manipulatives, like blocks or candies, for simple addition and subtraction.

To help students become truly independent with a math skill, it’s also important to gradually reduce the amount of scaffolding.

Quillbot’s AI Chat is a fast and free way to brainstorm ideas for math problems or scaffolding techniques.