5 Signs Your Tier 1 Instruction Isn’t Working (and What to Do About It)

by | Jul 22, 2025 | Science of Reading

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If your Tier 2 caseload is growing and your Tier 1 data isn’t budging, it’s time to take a hard look at your core instruction.

Warning Signs

🚩 Many students are still not meeting benchmark
🚩 Inconsistent implementation of the core program
🚩 Small group instruction is unclear or unplanned
🚩 Phonics scope and sequence isn’t followed
🚩 Assessments don’t match instructional focus

Fixes That Work

  • Implement daily UFLI or Fundations with fidelity
  • Start each day with a 10-minute Heggerty routine
  • Use progress monitoring tools weekly
  • Align instruction to the Science of Reading research

Support Tools

  • Core fidelity checklists
  • PLC planning templates
  • Coaching and modeling from instructional leaders

Tier 1 is your foundation, if it’s shaky, everything else wobbles. Prioritize Tier 1 excellence and you’ll reduce the need for costly interventions.