scaffolding

noun

scaf·​fold·​ing ˈska-fəl-diŋ How to pronounce scaffolding (audio)
-ˌfōl-
1
: a system of scaffolds
… photographers were allowed, three at a time, to ascend the elaborate scaffoldingEric Scigliano
also : material for scaffolds
2
: a support system or structure likened to a system of scaffolds
… in his readings and talks with authors, he is seeking theoretical scaffolding for his actions …John F. Dickerson
especially, education : a system or framework of support provided by an instructor to help a student reach the next level of learning
By identifying the next skills just above the child's current skill level, then providing scaffolding (or assistance) in a way that helps the child display the identified skills accurately, and then fading out the need for scaffolding, you can help a child to learn new things and become more independent. Heather Gilmore
Teachers should look for tools that help them easily adjust instructional scaffolding from assignment to assignment and from student to student—allowing them to meet students where they are as they learn to write for authentic audiences. Troy Hicks

Examples of scaffolding in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Several spirits are said to linger within: the original owners, Mary and Frank Henderson, who built the home in 1895; a Spanish-American war veteran who was fond of the home; and a little girl who fell off a scaffolding and broke her neck. Brooke Bobb, Vogue, 5 Oct. 2024 As described by Allan Collins, John Seely Brown and Susan Newman, cognitive apprenticeship involves six teaching methods: modeling, coaching, scaffolding, articulation, reflection and exploration. Sam Rockwell, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024 The unpredictable process takes microscopic scaffolding, random jiggling and often a little bit of bacteria. Quanta Magazine, 17 June 2024 When exploring the dome as a possible site, the two were shown the space between the supporting scaffolding and the stained glass in passing, but the pair seized on the idea of shooting in the unusual location. Rhonda Richford, WWD, 9 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for scaffolding 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'scaffolding.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of scaffolding was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near scaffolding

Cite this Entry

“Scaffolding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scaffolding. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

scaffolding

noun
scaf·​fold·​ing ˈskaf-əl-diŋ How to pronounce scaffolding (audio)
-ˌōl-
1
: a system of scaffolds
2
: materials for scaffolds

More from Merriam-Webster on scaffolding

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