How to Use Scaffolding to Teach Grammar in a Grade 8 English First Additional Language Class

Scaffolding, a teaching approach based on Bruner's cognitive development theory, is about a teacher providing support to the students and gradually reducing it, enabling students to work independently. Here's an example of how you can use it in a Grade 8 English First Additional Language lesson on grammar: 1. Shared Objectives: Begin by clearly stating the learning goals. For instance, today's objective could be understanding and correctly using past perfect tense. 2. Modeling: Demonstrate the use of the past perfect tense. For example, write a few sentences on the board that showcases its correct usage. 3. Guided Practice: Hand out a worksheet with fill-in-the-blank sentences that require students to use the past perfect tense. While students are completing this initial task, move around the classroom to observe, answer questions, and provides guidance as necessary, thus providing a safety net for errors. 4. Prompting: If students are still struggling, provide more direct prompts or clues. For example, remind them the structure of the past perfect tense: "had" + the past participle of the verb. 5. Independent Practice: Once the students show signs of understanding, let them complete more complex exercises by themselves. For example, write a small paragraph using the past perfect tense. 6. Reflection: Once the activity is completed, ask students to reflect on their work. Discuss any recurring problems or misconceptions, and reinforce the correct usage. As the student gains understanding and efficiency, gradually reduce the guidance until they are able to use past perfect tense independently. This is an example of how scaffolded instruction builds upon what students already know and helps them develop deeper understanding.