MTSS is a structured approach to support student learning in math and literacy
MTSS, or Multi-Tiered System of Support, is a framework designed to provide targeted educational support to students. While it has been more extensively used in literacy, efforts are being made to apply its principles to math education. The system is divided into tiers, each representing a different level of support. Tier 1 focuses on high-quality instruction for all students, Tier 2 offers additional support for those needing it, and Tier 3 provides intensive interventions for students significantly behind their peers. Understanding these tiers can help you better advocate for your child’s needs within the school system.
Understanding MTSS in Math: A Guide for Parents
As a parent of a child struggling with math, you might be familiar with the term MTSS, or Multi-Tiered System of Support. This approach, while more commonly used in literacy, is now being applied to math education. However, schools may face challenges in implementing this system effectively for math. As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child’s math journey, especially when school resources might be limited. This article will guide you through the tiers of MTSS in math and highlight how you can help your child at home using available tools.
Math is more complex than literacy, requiring a nuanced approach to intervention
One key challenge in implementing MTSS in math is the inherent complexity of the subject. Unlike literacy, where skills can often be taught in isolation, math is a highly interconnected field. The research on effective math interventions is still developing, making it harder for schools to implement a straightforward, linear approach to support. As a parent, recognizing this complexity can help you appreciate the effort required and the importance of your role in supplementing school efforts with home-based support.
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You can’t intervention your way out of a Tier 1 problem because the problem is everybody would need intervention when your Tier 1 is not strong.
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Tier 1 instruction is critical but often challenging for schools to implement effectively
Tier 1 instruction is the foundation of MTSS, aimed at providing high-quality, grade-level education to all students. However, many schools struggle to deliver effective Tier 1 math instruction due to various factors, including a lack of teachers with strong math backgrounds. This can result in a significant number of students needing additional support. As a parent, you can reinforce Tier 1 learning at home by engaging your child in math activities that align with their school curriculum, ensuring they have a solid foundation.
Key Takeaways:
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Understanding the MTSS Framework: The Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) is crucial for addressing the needs of children with learning challenges. It involves three tiers of support: Tier 1 focuses on high-quality, grade-level instruction for all students; Tier 2 provides targeted, small-group interventions based on formative assessments; and Tier 3 offers intensive, individualized support for students significantly behind their peers. Parents should understand that effective implementation of MTSS requires coordination across these tiers to ensure that their child receives comprehensive support tailored to their specific needs.
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Importance of Tier 1 Instruction: Tier 1 instruction is the foundation of the MTSS framework and is essential for all students, including those with learning challenges. It should be rigorous, on-grade level, and designed to provide multiple entry points for learners. Parents should advocate for their child to remain in the Tier 1 classroom as much as possible, as this ensures they benefit from high-quality instruction and are not removed from the learning environment that fosters a positive disposition towards math and other subjects.
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Coordination Across Tiers: Effective MTSS implementation requires seamless coordination between Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 interventions. Parents should ensure that the interventions their child receives in Tier 2 and Tier 3 are aligned with the Tier 1 curriculum. This alignment helps prevent cognitive overload and ensures that the support provided is directly connected to the classroom learning, thereby maximizing the impact of the interventions on their child's learning trajectory.
Tier 2 interventions require responsive teaching and can be supported by parents at home
Tier 2 interventions are designed to address specific misconceptions or skills gaps identified through regular assessments. These interventions are typically delivered in small groups within the classroom. As a parent, you can support Tier 2 efforts by using resources like Number Sense to help your child understand and practice foundational math concepts. Regularly reviewing and practicing these skills at home can reinforce what they learn in school and help them catch up more quickly.
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The goal of intervention is to get students as close as we can to on-grade-level work.
”Tier 3 interventions demand intensive support, but parents can help bridge the gap
Tier 3 interventions are for students with significant learning gaps, often requiring individualized plans. These students may be two or more years behind their peers, and the interventions must be carefully coordinated with Tier 1 instruction. Schools may struggle to provide this level of support effectively. As a parent, you can play a vital role in helping your child overcome these challenges by using tools like Problem Solving Skills to build their confidence and competence in math. By working closely with your child’s teachers and using these resources, you can help them progress towards grade-level work and achieve a more positive outcome in their math education.
Empower your child’s math journey with the Brain Bloom System. As a parent, you can play a vital role in supporting your child’s learning by reinforcing school efforts with this effective home-based tool, designed to help them overcome math challenges and achieve a more positive outcome in their education.
