scaffold

Everyday

1. A scaffold is a framework of metal poles and planks put up around a building so workers can stand on it while building or repairing; the whole structure is usually called scaffolding. tree →
2. (history) A scaffold was a raised wooden platform where criminals were executed in public. tree →
3. (school) To scaffold learning is to give support step by step, then take it away as the learner gets better. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and safety, scaffolding on buildings is dangerous to climb — keep away. In history lessons, people like Anne Boleyn and Charles I died on the scaffold. In school, teachers "scaffold" tasks with hints, word banks and examples; the support is removed once you can do it alone.

Examples

• Builders put up a scaffold around the church tower. tree →
• Never climb on scaffolding; it is very dangerous. tree →
• King Charles I was executed on a scaffold in 1649. tree →
• The teacher scaffolded the story-writing task with a planning sheet. tree →
• Workers stood on the scaffold to paint the windows. tree →
• The scaffold was taken down when the roof was finished. tree →
• Watch out for poles sticking out from the scaffolding. tree →
• In this dungeon Long Martha had been imprisoned, and from here she was led away to the scaffold. tree →

Note

Spelling: double f. "Scaffolding" (uncountable) is the usual word for the poles and planks; "a scaffold" can mean the same or the execution platform. Do not confuse with "scaffold" in learning, which means support.

In Jewish tradition

In everyday life and safety, scaffolding on buildings is dangerous to climb — keep away. In history lessons, people like Anne Boleyn and Charles I died on the scaffold. In school, teachers "scaffold" tasks with hints, word banks and examples; the support is removed once you can do it alone.

Note

Spelling: double f. "Scaffolding" (uncountable) is the usual word for the poles and planks; "a scaffold" can mean the same or the execution platform. Do not confuse with "scaffold" in learning, which means support.