As more schools use MTSS as the framework for implementing the science of reading, questions arise about the characteristics of the tiers of instruction.

Here are a few FAQs about Tier 2 intervention.

1. What Is The Purpose of Tier 2?

Tier 2 is:

• provided to the small group of students who are still at risk after the provision of effective Tier 1 instruction
• designed to accelerate learning
• aimed at catching students up to grade-level reading goals

2. How Is Tier 2 Defined?

The characteristics of Tier 2 include:

• small group
• in addition to, not instead of, Tier 1 instruction
• 3-5 times per week
• 30-45 minutes per day
• explicit, systematic, research-aligned instruction, delivered by a trained instructor
• focused on eliminating skill deficits
• frequent progress monitoring so intervention can be changed if it isn't working
• planned by a grade-level or school-level planning team using screening and diagnostic assessment data

3. How Is Tier 2 Different From Tier 1?

Tier 2 is more intensive,...