Praxis School Counselor (5422) Practice Exam

According to Lev Vygotsky's developmental theory, what provides students with structure to help them master a skill within their zone of proximal development?

1. Process-relational development

2. Scaffolding

3. Metacognition

4. Executive function

The correct answer is: Scaffolding

Scaffolding is the correct answer because this term refers to the support provided by a teacher or more experienced peer to help students learn a skill that is just beyond their current capabilities. This support may include breaking down the task into smaller steps, providing explanations, and modeling the desired behavior. Option A, process-relational development, is not a term used in Vygotsky's theory, making it an incorrect choice. Option C, metacognition, is a term that describes one's awareness and understanding of their own thought processes and learning strategies, but it is not directly related to Vygotsky's concept of scaffolding. Option D, executive function, refers to the cognitive processes involved in planning, organizing, and completing tasks, but it is not specifically related to providing structure for students within their zone of proximal development.