Scaffolding - developing a unit of study through a set sequence of steps - is well suited to Media Education. Scaffolding involves:

1. Providing students with an overall picture of what will be expected of them.
   
   
2. Breaking up and sequencing the order in which various concepts, skills, and applications of skills will be taught and assessed.
   
   
3. Checking for students' understanding of what is being taught, and requiring them to complete parts of the project as they go along.
   
   
4. Having the students demonstrate their understanding for the evaluation of teacher and/or peers.

If students are to present an analysis of the codes and conventions of sitcoms, for example ideally the scaffolding would proceed this way:

1. Model what such a presentation would look like.
   
   
2. Teach them the relevant codes and conventions.
   
   
3. Practice identifying codes and conventions in various sitcoms. (Allow students repeated opportunities to apply what they are learning, so they can integrate that knowledge into their presentations.)
   
   
4. Require them to research and put together their presentation.
   
   
5. Before students present their work, have them submit an outline of it - including notes or ideas for what they intend to use.
   
   
6. Finally, when the students do present their work, evaluate their understanding. (See Evaluating Media Products for evaluation ideas.)