National Evaluation Series (NES) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Test

What term describes the support that builds academic vocabulary for ESL transitioning students?

1. Think time

2. Scaffolding

3. Wait time

4. Active listening

The correct answer is: Scaffolding

Scaffolding refers to the instructional techniques and strategies provided by educators to support students in building their understanding and skills, particularly when they are facing new and challenging concepts. For ESL (English as a Second Language) transitioning students, scaffolding is particularly important because these students may have limited proficiency in English, which can hinder their ability to participate fully in academic tasks and develop their academic vocabulary. Scaffolding involves breaking down learning into manageable parts, providing support structures, and gradually removing those supports as students become more proficient and independent. This can include modeling language use, providing vocabulary lists, using visual aids, and creating opportunities for collaborative learning. By using these techniques, teachers create an environment where ESL students can acquire the critical academic vocabulary they need to succeed in their studies. In contrast, terms like think time, wait time, and active listening refer to different instructional strategies that either help with processing information or facilitate communication but do not directly focus on building academic vocabulary in the context of transitioning ESL students.