Which of the following best illustrates Vygotsky's concept of scaffolding?

• A. A teacher provides hints and prompts to help a student solve a math problem, gradually reducing assistance as the student becomes more competent.
• B. A parent rewards a child with praise every time they complete their homework independently.
• C. A student memorizes multiplication tables through repeated practice and drills.
• D. A child learns to ride a bicycle by watching older siblings and imitating their actions without any guidance.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand Vygotsky's concept of scaffolding, which refers to the support and guidance provided by a more knowledgeable other (such as a teacher or parent) to help a learner accomplish a task they cannot complete independently, with the support gradually removed as the learner gains competence.
2. Step 2: Analyze each option to see which one involves a knowledgeable person providing assistance that is gradually reduced as the learner improves.
3. Step 3: Identify that the option where a teacher provides hints and prompts to help a student solve a math problem, gradually reducing assistance, matches the idea of scaffolding because it involves guided support tailored to the learner's current level.
4. Step 4: Recognize that other options, such as rewarding independent homework completion, memorizing through drills, or learning by imitation without guidance, do not involve the gradual, interactive support characteristic of scaffolding.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best illustration of scaffolding is the teacher providing hints and prompts with decreasing assistance as the student becomes more competent.