A student is having difficulty solving multistep math problems without help. The teacher begins by modeling each step and gradually reduces support as the student gains confidence. Which instructional strategy is the teacher using?

Metacognition refers to the awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes. While it is an important skill for students to develop, it does not specifically involve the step-by-step support that scaffolding provides. Instead, metacognition focuses on self-regulation and reflection on learning strategies rather than direct instructional support.

Active learning is an instructional approach where students engage in the learning process through discussions, problem-solving, and hands-on activities. Although it encourages participation, it does not inherently involve the gradual release of support that characterizes scaffolding. Active learning can occur without structured assistance, unlike the specific guidance provided in scaffolding.

Explicit instruction is a teaching method that involves direct teaching of concepts and skills, often through clear explanations and demonstrations. While the teacher's modeling of steps might seem like explicit instruction, it lacks the gradual withdrawal of support that defines scaffolding. Explicit instruction is more focused on delivering content rather than fostering independent problem-solving skills through phased assistance.