Elevating Math Understanding Through Intervention Support

Every student possesses unique learning potential. While some students excel in mathematics, others require additional support to reach their full academic potential. Response to Intervention (RTI) is a systematic approach designed to address these diverse needs and ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in math. By providing timely and targeted intervention support, educators can create inclusive and effective learning environments. 

ORIGO shares this vision and has developed a comprehensive approach to support RTI implementation. Let’s dive into the RTI framework, explore its practical classroom applications, and learn how ORIGO can be your partner in elevating student achievement through successful RTI implementation.

A Tiered Approach for Success

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), including RTI, are designed to support most students through high-quality general education instruction. 

Tier 1 involves high-quality, evidence-based instruction delivered to all students within the general education classroom. This level focuses on building a strong mathematical foundation through deliberate teaching, differentiated instruction, and ongoing formative assessment.

Differentiation is crucial for effective intervention support. By providing different learning opportunities, materials, and levels of support, differentiated instruction helps to close achievement gaps and promotes a more inclusive learning environment. This tailored approach helps to meet the diverse needs of students, ensuring that everyone receives the support they require to succeed. 

Tier 1 Core Math Instruction Includes:

• Strong foundational teaching: Deliver focused, well-planned lessons.
• Personalized learning: Offer diverse teaching methods to suit all students.
• Ongoing assessment: Use frequent checks to guide instruction.
• Small group support: Provide targeted help based on student needs.
• Data-driven decisions: Use student data to improve teaching.

While the MTSS/RTI model aims to provide support to 80-90% of students through Tier 1, the reality is that many schools fall short of this goal. This indicates a need for more targeted interventions to ensure all students achieve their full potential. 

Tiers 2 and 3: Intensive Support for Struggling Learners

Tier 2 interventions provide more intensive and focused support. These interventions are typically delivered in small groups and target specific skill deficits identified through ongoing assessment. Effective Tier 2 interventions can help struggling students close the gap and make significant progress toward grade-level expectations.

Tier 2 Targeted Support Includes:

• Extra help for struggling students: Provide more time and tailored instruction for those needing additional support, such as small group lessons focusing on specific math facts or problem-solving strategies.
• Enrichment for advanced learners: Offer challenging activities like math competitions, coding, or open-ended problem-solving for students who excel.
• Flexible grouping: Create smaller, targeted groups based on specific math needs (e.g., fractions, multiplication).
• Teamwork: Collaborate with support staff to provide more intensive support.

For students who continue to struggle despite Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions, Tier 3 provides the most intensive level of support. These interventions include individualized support tailored to specific student needs, such as frequent one-on-one or small group sessions, close monitoring of student progress to inform adjustments, and collaboration with specialized professionals. 

Tier 3 Intensive Support Includes:

• Targeted, specialized help: Provide in-depth support beyond Tier 1 and 2.
• Focus on foundational skills: Address specific math weaknesses like fact fluency.
• Flexible and adaptable: Adjust support based on student progress.

Intervention Support in Math Education

RTI is a game-changer for educators and students alike. By swiftly identifying students who need extra support, RTI acts as an early warning system, preventing academic setbacks before they derail learning journeys. 

The research speaks for itself: A spotlight on first-grade math students revealed that targeted support not only caught struggling learners up to their peers but often propelled them ahead. This early intervention also reduced the likelihood of labeling students with math disabilities. Armed with data and evidence-based strategies, teachers can tailor instruction to meet individual needs, boosting student achievement and fostering a love of learning. 

Intervention support isn’t just about fixing problems; it’s about unlocking potential. Collaborative teams, empowered by data, can transform classrooms into dynamic learning hubs where every student thrives. The research, particularly third-grade studies focused on math problem-solving, underscored RTI’s ability to prevent students from falling behind. These findings strongly suggest that RTI can be a powerful tool for identifying and addressing math challenges at the earliest stages.

Building a Strong Team: The Power of Collaboration

A successful RTI implementation hinges on a strong and collaborative team. This team typically includes general education teachers, special education teachers, administrators, school counselors, and specialists such as reading or math interventionists.

The cornerstone of an effective RTI team is the classroom teacher. Teachers play a crucial role in identifying students who may need additional support, implementing Tier 1 instruction, and collaborating with other team members. As an educator, your daily interactions with students provide invaluable insights into student needs and progress.

Getting the Most Out of Intervention

Here are some tips to help make MTSS/RTI work for your classroom:

• Know your students: Keep a close eye on how everyone’s doing.
• Track their progress: Check in regularly to see if they’re getting it.
• Use what you learn: Let the data guide your teaching.
• Team up: Talk to your colleagues—you’re not alone in this!
• Bring parents into the loop: Keep them in the know.

• Keep learning: Stay up-to-date on the latest RTI tips.
• Be ready to change things up: Sometimes, what works today might not work tomorrow.

With a little effort, you can make RTI work wonders in your classroom.

Preparing for Intervention with ORIGO

ORIGO Intervention Essentials offers a comprehensive solution to support students who need additional math help. This research-based intervention program provides educators with the tools and strategies to effectively address individual student needs. With engaging activities, personalized professional learning, and ongoing progress monitoring, Intervention Essentials helps students build confidence and fluency in math.

Whether you’re a teacher, paraeducator, or math coach, Intervention Essentials can be easily integrated into your existing instructional routine. This flexible program can be used in a variety of settings, including RTI, MTSS, SPED, and after-school programs.