Which one of the following students is definitely working in his or her zone of proximal development?
A) Arnold uses correct grammar and punctuation when he writes short stories.
B) Berta is beginning to learn basic woodworking techniques. She has trouble hammering a nail straight into a piece of wood unless her teacher stands beside her, helping her and reminding her of what to do.
C) Calvin is playing the clarinet in the band. He finds that it helps to keep the tempo if he taps the beat with his foot.
D) Doreen finds it virtually impossible to solve mathematical word problems, even when her teacher gives her helpful hints.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Berta is working in her zone of proximal development as she is beginning to learn a new skill (woodworking), but needs the guidance and support of her teacher to fully grasp the technique. This is the essence of the zone of proximal development, where a learner is able to do something with assistance that they would not be able to do on their own. The other students mentioned are not necessarily working in their zone of proximal development. Arnold is already able to use correct grammar and punctuation, indicating that he has already mastered these skills. Calvin is using a helpful strategy to improve his playing but is not necessarily at a level where he needs assistance to improve his skills. Doreen is struggling with a task that is likely outside of her current abilities but may not necessarily be in her zone of proximal development.

Which One of the Following Students Is Definitely Working in His