Effective Scaffolding in Science Instruction: Strategies for ALL Learners

This three-session professional learning series is designed to deepen educators’ understanding of scaffolding as an essential instructional practice in science. Grounded in High-Leverage Practice for Students With Disabilities No. 15, Provide Scaffolded Supports, the series examines how intentional, well-designed supports help all learners access rigorous, three-dimensional science learning. Participants engage in practical strategies, collaborative analysis, and real-world examples that demonstrate how scaffolding, when paired with other high-leverage practices, can strengthen science instruction. Each session builds on the previous one, guiding educators from foundational understanding to classroom implementation.

Series Goals
Participants will:
Understand the concept of scaffolding and its significance in science education.
Explore a range of scaffolding techniques and how they can be tailored to specific learning objectives.
Address common challenges and misconceptions related to scaffolding in science instruction.
Analyze real-world case studies to apply scaffolding strategies in authentic classroom contexts.

Session 1: Effective Scaffolding in Science Instruction — Strategies for All Learners
This session introduces the core principles of scaffolding and explains why it is essential to effective science instruction. Participants examine how scaffolds support sensemaking, reduce cognitive load, and promote student independence. Through interactive examples, educators identify when and why scaffolds are needed and how they align with the expectations of three-dimensional science learning.

Session 2: Practical Scaffolding Strategies for Sensemaking in Science
This session focuses on actionable scaffolding strategies that support all students in engaging with science and engineering practices. Participants explore tools and routines that make complex tasks, such as modeling, data analysis, and argumentation, accessible without reducing instructional rigor.

Session 3: Applying Scaffolding Through Case Studies and Lesson Design
In the final session, participants analyze real classroom scenarios to identify effective scaffolding moves and opportunities for improvement. Educators collaboratively redesign portions of lessons to incorporate purposeful scaffolds aligned with High-Leverage Practice No. 15. The session concludes with reflection and planning for classroom implementation.

Primary Contact: Judith Beccaro - Judith.Beccaro@doe.k12.ga.us

Secondary Contact: Keith Crandall - Kcrandall@doe.k12.ga.us