The Scaffolding Effect: Supporting All Students to Succeed

by Rachel Ball, Alex Fairlamb

Overview

Scaffolding is the support teachers provide students so they can successfully progress from novice to expert and is a crucial part of teaching and classroom management. This exciting book explores the research behind scaffolding and adaptive teaching whilst also debunking the myths and misconceptions behind this approach.

Drawing on evidence from cognitive science, it brings together best practice of tried and tested methods of effective scaffolding across different settings and disciplines. Featuring practical classroom examples, research evidence, and case studies, the chapters cover:

• The link between cognitive science and effective scaffolding strategies
• Using scaffolding to support literacy and oracy
• Scaffolding in practical subjects
• Ways to scaffold homework
• How to modify scaffolding for different ages and settings
• Pitfalls to avoid when implementing scaffolding

Part of the Teacher CPD Academy series from InnerDrive, this is essential reading for all teachers and school leaders that want evidence-based strategies which focus on impact in the classroom in sustainable and meaningful ways.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781032739830
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	07/31/2025
Series:	The Teacher CPD Academy
Pages:	356
Product dimensions:	5.81(w) x 8.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Rachel Ball is Coaching Development Lead at Steplab, a former Senior Leader in charge of Teaching and Learning and CPD and an SLE, based in the North West, UK.

Alex Fairlamb is Senior Leader in charge of Teaching and Learning and CPD, based in the North East, UK. She is a Chartered Teacher of History, a Specialist Leader in Education and an Evidence Lead in Education.

Table of Contents

Introduction  1. Differentiation, Adaptive Teaching and Scaffolding  2. Scaffolding of Retrieval Practice and the use of Verbal Cueing  3. Scaffolding through Modelling  4. Scaffolding of Explanations  5. Scaffolding and Reading  6a. Scaffolding and Writing  6b. Scaffolding and Writing: Primary Case Studies  7a. Scaffolding and Oracy  7b. Scaffolding and Oracy: Case Studies   8. Scaffolding in Practical Subjects  9. Scaffolding at KS1/KS5  10. Scaffolding of Homework  11. Potential Pitfalls of Scaffolding Strategies  12. Professional Development and Scaffolding Strategies

Editorial Reviews

Scaffolding is a key component of effective teaching. But getting the right balance between challenge and support is notoriously tricky. All too often, teachers misjudge the scaffolding see-saw, leaving students floundering and frustrated.
Thankfully, Ball and Fairlamb have written a comprehensive, accessible guide to adaptive teaching in action. Informed by research yet highly practical in nature, The Scaffolding Effect offers teachers an expert guide on how to match the highest of expectations with the most helpful temporary support.”
Mark Roberts, Director of Research and English teacher, Carrickfergus Grammar School

“The Scaffolding Effect is an exceptional and timely contribution, offering a comprehensive, research-backed exploration of scaffolding strategies. Many teachers struggle with how to teach to the top and scaffold adequately and the clear explanations and practical case studies in this book demystify the complex nuances of adaptive teaching, making it accessible for teachers at all levels. This book empowers teachers to better support student learning, guiding them to implement scaffolding strategies effectively. Its reflective questions at the end of each chapter encourage deeper thinking, making it an invaluable resource for professional development. The Scaffolding Effect stands as a blueprint for teachers to raise expectations, bridge learning gaps and foster independent learners. A must-read for educators committed to honing their craft and enhancing student success."
Haili Hughes, Principal Lecturer in Mentoring and Professional Development, University of Sunderland and Director of Education, Iris Connect

"Teachers across the country understand the importance of guiding or supporting practice, before asking pupils to complete tasks independently. What we have been missing is an in-depth understanding of exactly how we can do this - until now! In The Scaffolding Effect Rachel and Alex provide us with a hugely comprehensive review of how we can scaffold every aspect of our teaching. Packed full of examples, research and case studies this is crucial reading for new and expert teachers of all subjects and Key Stages."
Jade Pearce, Trust Head of Education

“The Scaffolding Effect book is rich in thought, meticulously conceived and ooozes moments of ‘damn right!’ What'stands out is the balance of research, explanation of the core principles and carefully explored classroom application. Personally, I found the case studies especially useful as they prompted me to reflect on how I could use and apply this in the classroom and a school more widely.”
Stuart Tiffany, Primary School Teacher, Subject leader, Author and Consultant, and Visiting Lecturer

From the Publisher