GtE
Having read your post and re read the initial comment which I read as 'the crosswind acts on the aircraft at altitude' instead of 'moves with the air mass'
I can now see the original poster may have meant what you have described, the student will try to point at his reference point using rudder and create an out of balance situation, whereas he should be checking the balance ball to remain in balance.
Just shows how important the correct choice of words is in teaching.