Bonds is trying to teach his son Barry to hit a baseball (a task that Barry has never before attempted). How might the concept of a zone of proximal development come into play in this situation, and what technique might Bonds use to improve his son's performance? Finally, how will Bonds most effectively used scaffolding in this circumstance?

What will be an ideal response?

The zone of proximal development is an estimate of the difference between what Barry can do alone and what Barry can do with assistance. Thus, the first step in the process would be to let Barry hit and see how well he does. If he is excellent, then no intervention is necessary. If he needs assistance, Bonds might try guided participation in which he would pair his son with a more skilled hitter in a batting task. In terms of scaffolding, Bonds will provide only as much help as Barry actually needs. When Barry becomes capable of a new aspect of hitting the baseball, Bonds withdraw that level of help. In this way, Barry will be encouraged to develop his skills without receiving help that he does not need