In academic intervention contexts, what does "tiered instruction" refer to?

Tiered instruction refers to a systematic approach designed to deliver varying levels of support tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. This instructional model recognizes that students have different learning paces, preferences, and levels of understanding. By implementing tiered instruction, educators can provide differentiated tasks and supports that range in complexity and intensity, based on ongoing assessment of student performance.

This approach aligns closely with response to intervention (RTI) strategies, where students receive more targeted interventions if they struggle with the standard curriculum. The flexibility inherent in tiered instruction allows for effective support across the tiers, ensuring that all students can engage with content that is appropriately challenging for them.

In contrast, group teaching focuses on a collective approach and may not adequately address individual student needs. Standardized testing procedures are primarily about assessment rather than instructional methods. A scheduling system for classes relates to the organization of time rather than the instructional strategies employed within the classroom. Thus, the essence of tiered instruction lies in its ability to adapt instructional practices to optimize learning for all students.