What type of reading skills does scaffolding help to develop in students?

Scaffolding plays a crucial role in developing independent reading skills in students. This teaching strategy involves providing temporary support to students as they engage with texts that may initially be too challenging for them to tackle alone. The idea is to gradually remove this support as students become more proficient, which ultimately fosters their ability to read independently.

When teachers use scaffolding practices, they might model reading strategies, guide discussions about the text, or provide tools such as graphic organizers. These supports enable students to navigate complex materials, build comprehension, and practice critical thinking skills. Over time, as they gain confidence and competence, students learn how to approach texts on their own, enhancing their overall literacy development.

Other options may convey important reading concepts, but they do not represent the broad and progressive development of skills that scaffolding specifically targets. For instance, while vocabulary acquisition and basic print awareness are significant, they do not encompass the full spectrum of skills involved in becoming an independent reader capable of engaging with a wide range of texts. Scaffolding is fundamentally about guiding students toward autonomy in their reading practices, making independent reading skills the most fitting answer.