Question of the WeekWhat is the difference

between accommodations and

scaffolds?

Math AllianceMay 25, 2010

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How are they alike and different?

Accommodations Scaffolds

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How are they defined?

• Accommodations– Minor change in how content or

material is presented…and/or how student participates in the lesson…does not alter method of learning or learning outcome

(Boyle & Scanlon, 2010)

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How are they defined?

• Scaffolds– provide the appropriate types and

amounts of support for the appropriate length of time to allow a student to be successful at carrying out a task or achieving a goal which would be beyond his or her unassisted efforts. It is not lowering the bar; it is raising the student.

(Alliance & others)

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How are they alike?

• BOTH…– Provide support so student can be

successful– Do not change the essentials of

what is to be learned– Should be determined by using

knowledge of student and math– May not always be needed

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How are they different?

ACCOMMODATIONS• Often associated with changing

the task rather than teaching• Not always as focused on

understanding• Often planned in advance (IEP)• May always be needed (extra time)

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How are they different?

SCAFFOLDS• More associated with directing learning

and building understanding• Used to be associated with what you say

– hints, prompts, questions– Now, strategy sheets, graphic organizers, etc.

• Can be planned but also happen on-the-fly

• Temporary – not always needed

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Examples of each

• For you

• For your students

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For now

• Let’s think in terms of SUPPORTSSUPPORTS– Questions, hints, graphic

organizers, posters, student collaboration, number lines, hundreds charts, reminders to use strategies, cue cards, easier numbers, acting problems out