STANDARDS-BASED INSTRUCTION 

What is Tier 1, 2, and 3 Instruction?

• Tier 1 IS Grade Level instructions from the Standards  and is the anchor of all tiered instruction. It is the universal tier and is provided to ALL STUDENTS EVERY DAY. During Tier 1, grade-level instruction, teachers use scientifically researched programs and evidence-based practices, curricula, and strategies that have been proven to be effective for the majority of students.  Grade-level standards are the minimum teachers must teach their students during the school year.

  • Generally, Tier 1 instruction aligns with the curriculum that each state requires. The goal of Tier 1 instruction is to provide high-quality instruction and support to all students, regardless of their learning needs or background. 

  • What does Martin Luther King use for grade level Instruction? 

    • Into Reading (HMH), Big Ideas (Math), TWIG (Science), Studies Weekly (Social Studies), Reading Horizons, Calendar Math

• Tier 2 is small-group instruction that relies on evidence-based interventions that specify the instructional procedures that occurs at least 3-4 times per week for 20 minutes.

  • Tier 2 is secondary prevention, and has at least three distinguishing characteristics: it is evidence-based (rather than research-based); it relies entirely on adult-led small-group instruction rather than whole-class instruction; and it involves a clearly articulated, validated intervention, which should be adhered to with fidelity.

  • Tier 2 is likely to involve small groups of students with similar learning needs who work daily with a teacher using a specific instructional practice or program. 

  • Tier 2 instructional materials and methods are often similar to those used for Tier 1 core instruction and utilizes standards based curriculum at grade level.

  • It is important to note that Tier 2 intervention is always in addition to Tier 1 universal (core) instruction. Tier 2 needs to supplement Tier 1 because students who have not yet met learning goals need more time to learn, practice, and review knowledge and skills.

• Tier 3 is the third level of the RTI prevention framework. It is the most intensive of the three levels and is individualized to target each student’s area(s) of need.

  • At this level, the teacher begins with a more intensive version of the intervention program used in secondary prevention (e.g., longer sessions, smaller group size, more frequent sessions). 

  • The teacher does not presume it will meet the student’s needs. Instead, the teacher conducts frequent progress monitoring (i.e., at least weekly) with each student.

  • Tier 3 interventions typically occur five days a week. 

  • It is important to note that Tier 3 intervention is always in addition to Tier 1 universal (core) instruction and Tier 2, targeted instruction.