Scaffolding Decision Tree

Quick triage — pick the right scaffold for the right student

Scaffolding Decision Tree
Three questions in order. Stop at the first match.
1 · Can the student access the content with the text as written?
Yes →
Provide language scaffolds only (frames, glossary, partner). Skip to step 3.
No →
Modify the input. Continue to step 2.
2 · Is the barrier vocabulary, syntax, or background knowledge?
Vocabulary
Cognates · bilingual glossary · Tier 2/3 pre-teach · visuals.
Syntax
Sentence deconstruction mat · chunked text · reduced clause density.
Background
Visual-first protocol · anticipatory guide · short L1 video preview.
All three
Use a parallel modified text or stations — this is alternative-teaching territory.
3 · What output do you need? Match the language scaffold.
Talk
Sentence stems · discussion move cards · structured pairs · rehearse-then-share.
Writing
Paragraph builder · mentor sentence · quick-writes by level · revise with frames.

Rule of thumb. Scaffolds are temporary. Plan from day one which one comes off this week, this unit, this quarter. A scaffold that never comes off is a ceiling.