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Tiered Instruction and Intervention - Tier 3

We are in the beginning stages of implementing RTI in our building. From our trainings, it has been suggested that Tier 3 students will benefit the most from a second core curriculum rather than attending the universal core and being supplemented with a strategies class. Do you have any data/research to support this? Our district is adamant about having one curriculum for all students.


Response from Bob Heimbaugh:

Having one curriculum for all students is imperative.  In reference to your question, I believe your trainers are suggesting a second "core" for Tier 3 students because the students are probably not showing any measurable progress.  Let’s break it down concerning a Tier 3 student:

 

  • The student probably receives the "Core"  (90 minutes).
  • The student is probably being progressed monitored, if not weekly, every other week.
  • The student may be involved in a group at Tier 2, receiving 30 to 60 minutes additional instruction.
  • The student probably is being provided some type of accommodation or modification if on an IEP.
  • The student is probably being provided small group instruction or one-to-one instruction at Tier 3 for another 30-90 minutes.

Still, after all of the supports described above, the student is not responding or showing growth.  This is the student to which your trainer is referring.  After providing all of the supports listed above for a student and there is still no impact on learning based on data, then a much more intensive instructional program is needed.  While being exposed to the 90 minute core is optimal for all students, the 90 minutes spent there may not be providing any educational benefit for the student because the student’s learning needs are so great.  In essence, your trainer is suggesting that if a student has needs that are so great they get no benefit from the core curriculum, then an alternative curriculum is needed.  Also, most students at Tier 3 will show progress.  Your trainer is most likely referring to a very small percentage of students in your schools.

 


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