This paper discussed the significance of creating the cognitive apprenticeship learning environment in a language learning classroom, especially in the EFL classroom from a sociocultural perspective. Since the concept of cognitive apprenticeship helps operationalize the ZPD idea in the EFL classroom, the attempt to apply the concept of cognitive apprenticeship to the EFL classroom is necessary and meaningful.Then, this paper presented the principles for designing the cognitive apprenticeship environment in the EFL classroom. As the ways to promote the development of expertise, there are six types of instructional strategies: (a) modeling, (b) coaching, (c) scaffolding, (d) articulation, (e) reflection, and (f) exploration. These elements are critical in designing and implementing activities in the EFL classroom.
