What is tier 1, Tier 2, and tier 3?

Tiered Support: A Framework for Differentiated Learning

In a classroom filled with diverse learners, each student possesses unique strengths, needs, and learning styles. To ensure every student thrives, educators employ a range of strategies, and one particularly effective approach is tiered support. This framework involves delivering instruction in a layered fashion, providing escalating levels of individualized support tailored to student needs.

The Foundation: Tier 1

At the heart of tiered support lies Tier 1, the core curriculum. This is the foundation of instruction, encompassing the essential knowledge and skills that all students are expected to master. Tier 1 lessons are designed to be accessible to the majority of students, often utilizing differentiated strategies to address varying learning styles. The focus is on building a strong foundation in foundational concepts, skills, and knowledge.

Targeted Intervention: Tier 2

While Tier 1 provides a strong foundation, some students may require additional support to reach their full potential. This is where Tier 2, targeted interventions, come into play. This level offers small-group or individualized instruction, addressing specific areas of difficulty identified through ongoing assessment. Interventions focus on specific skill gaps, providing focused instruction and practice to bridge learning gaps.

Intensive Support: Tier 3

For students who require more intensive support, Tier 3 provides highly individualized interventions. This level involves working with students one-on-one or in very small groups, offering personalized strategies and accommodations tailored to their specific learning needs. Tier 3 interventions are often individualized to address specific learning disabilities, emotional challenges, or other factors impacting a student’s progress.

The Power of Collaboration

The success of tiered support relies heavily on collaboration. Educators, specialists, and parents work together to identify student needs, design appropriate interventions, and monitor progress. This collaborative approach ensures that students receive the support they need at the right time, fostering a climate of individualized learning and success.

Examples of Tiered Support

• Reading: Tier 1 might focus on whole-class reading lessons with differentiated activities. Tier 2 could involve small-group intervention for students struggling with decoding. Tier 3 might provide one-on-one tutoring for students with dyslexia.
• Math: Tier 1 might focus on whole-class instruction of basic math concepts. Tier 2 could involve small-group intervention for students struggling with multiplication. Tier 3 might involve individualized instruction for students with specific learning disabilities like dyscalculia.

Benefits of Tiered Support

Tiered support offers numerous benefits for students, teachers, and schools:

• Increased Student Success: By providing tailored support, tiered systems ensure students receive the appropriate level of instruction to reach their full potential.
• Enhanced Differentiation: Tiered support allows teachers to effectively differentiate instruction, meeting the diverse needs of all learners in the classroom.
• Improved Learning Outcomes: By addressing individual learning gaps, tiered support promotes academic progress and improves student achievement.
• Empowered Students: By providing appropriate support, tiered systems empower students to become confident and successful learners.

Tiered support is not a “one size fits all” solution, but a dynamic framework that adapts to individual needs. By understanding the tiers and collaborating with colleagues, educators can create a supportive learning environment where all students can flourish.