Screening students within a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) requires valid and reliable screening measures or data sources, as well as risk verification processes. The activity assists educators with examining and evaluating their current screening and risk verification tools and processes. The activity can be completed by a single educator or with a small group of individuals responsible for screening within a grade-level or school.
Screening is the systematic process of collecting student data to determine their strengths and level of risk for poor learning outcomes. Educators screen all students multiple times per year to ensure students in need of support are identified early. It can also be used as a continued systems check for Tier 1 instruction. When screening identifies a large proportion of students at risk, educators should consider strengthening Tier 1 instruction and supports in addition to intervention placement.
A multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) is a framework shaping how schools operate. In essence, MTSS is the way we organize teaching and learning. Building that framework, however, is complex. Implementation often feels uneven as teams adopt new routines, schedules adjust, and data systems take time to stabilize. It’s natural to question whether MTSS is “worth it” when results don’t appear right away. The short answer is, yes- MTSS is worth it.
Hypothesis generation is a key part of intensifying supports for students. Educators identify a hypothesis and then gather diagnostic data to confirm or disconfirm the selected hypothesis. Use the table below to identify a possible hypothesis when students aren’t making progress. Select a hypothesis and then collect data using our suggested diagnostic data tools.
When students demonstrate little to no growth, educators examine the extent to which the student’s core instruction and interventions are aligned to their specific needs. This tool is used to determine if a student's instructional plan aligns to their specific needs. By answering the questions within the tool, educators can better target a student's needs.
Use of specific praise is an effective strategy for reinforcing skills in students that are associated with positive academic and behavioral outcomes. Educators can use this assessment tool to determine the ratio of general praise and specific praise compared to redirects. A ratio of at least 4 praise statements to every 1 redirect is connected to a more positive learning environment for students.
This handout provides an overview of three common decision rules educators can use to analyze academic progress monitoring data. These options include the four-point analysis method, trend line analysis method, and median of the last three data points method.
Effective Tier 2 requires evidence-based interventions that target key skills for students. The Tier 2 Intervention Evaluation Tool is used by educators to examine their current Tier 2 interventions.
Use this assessment to evaluate the extent to which elements of explicit instruction are in place during instruction for a given student during interventions (Tiers 2 and 3) or for the class as a whole during core instruction (Tier 1). This assessment allows teachers to self-assess their instruction but can also be used by an outside observer to provide feedback on the teacher’s instruction.