Scaffolding Template for Differentiated Instruction

This Scaffolding Template is designed to help teachers plan intentional support for students with varying levels of proficiency. Whether you’re working with a mixed-ability classroom or adapting instruction for language learners, this tool guides you through planning differentiated levels of support—minimal, moderate, and high—within one lesson or activity.

Use this template to break down a lesson’s goals, prepare materials, and build step-by-step scaffolds that help all learners access content. It’s ideal for planning ahead, individualizing instruction, or refining lessons after reflection. Whether you’re prepping for tomorrow or designing long-term units, this tool makes it easier to plan instruction that meets every learner where they are.

Need a reference? See a sample completed version to get ideas for how to structure your scaffolding plan.

Looking for ways to better support a range of learners in your World Language classroom? Course 5576: World Language Differentiation for Heritage and Native Speakers explores practical strategies—including scaffolding, oracy, and the Language Experience Approach—to help you meet the diverse needs of heritage, native, and general language learners.