In every K–5 classroom, there are students who need more modeling, more time, and more intensity. But not all interventions are created equal. To move students from well below to proficient, we need a clear, structured, MTSS-aligned intervention plan that works.
Step 1: Identify the Root Cause
- Use Acadience and diagnostic tools (e.g., PAST, CORE Phonics Survey) to pinpoint specific skill deficits
- Categorize by Tier 2 (Below Benchmark) and Tier 3 (Well Below Benchmark)
Step 2: Match the Right Intervention
🔹 Phonemic Awareness
- Tier 2: Heggerty Bridge the Gap (5–7 minutes daily)
- Tier 3: Double dosage of Bridge the Gap
🔹 Phonics and Decoding - Tier 2: UFLI Small Group or Fundations Intervention
- Tier 3: Phonics for Reading or Sound Partners
🔹 Fluency and Accuracy - Use repeated readings with goal charts
- Track oral reading fluency weekly
Step 3: Progress Monitor Like a Pro
- Tier 2: Monitor every 2–3 weeks
- Tier 3: Weekly checks for growth
- Celebrate small wins to build momentum!
Results You Can See
With the right routines, you’ll see measurable movement in just 6–8 weeks. Students who once struggled to segment sounds will be blending and decoding independently.
Foundational reading gaps aren’t a life sentence. With structured interventions, daily fidelity, and data-driven decisions, K–5 teachers can give every student the chance to read with confidence.