What does the first tier of the Response to Intervention model involve?

The first tier of the Response to Intervention (RTI) model is focused on screening the entire class for at-risk students. This initial step is crucial because it enables educators to identify students who may require additional support in their learning. During this tier, universal screenings are conducted to collect data on all students' academic performance and behavioral indicators. This information allows teachers to determine which students are performing at grade level and which ones may need further intervention.

Establishing a baseline by screening helps educators to understand the overall effectiveness of their instruction and identify those who are struggling. By highlighting students who are at risk of potential learning difficulties, interventions can be tailored to address the needs of those individuals in subsequent tiers of the RTI model. This tier is not about individual or small group instruction yet; rather, it is about assessing the broader student population to ensure early identification and support for those who may need it.