Describe the three MTSS tiers and the typical supports at each level.

• A. Tier 1 universal instruction for all students; Tier 2 targeted small-group interventions; Tier 3 intensive individualized interventions.
• B. Tier 1 universal instruction for all students; Tier 2 enrichment for high achievers; Tier 3 withdrawal from instruction.
• C. Tier 1 universal instruction only; Tier 2 is diagnostic testing; Tier 3 is for students who fail.
• D. Tier 1 is optional; Tier 2 is required for all; Tier 3 is not used.

Answer: (A)

MTSS uses a three-tier framework to match instructional intensity to every student’s needs. At the base level, universal instruction is provided for all students with a strong, evidence-based core curriculum; teaching is high quality, and progress is regularly checked to catch early signs of struggle. When students don’t respond adequately to that core, they receive targeted supports in small groups—Tier 2—designed to address specific gaps and accelerate progress, with ongoing progress monitoring to decide whether they stay at Tier 2, return to Tier 1, or need more help. For students who continue to struggle despite Tier 2, Tier 3 offers intensive, individualized interventions, often one-on-one, with more frequent progress monitoring and a plan that may include a referral for special education evaluation if appropriate. This structure aligns with the description of universal instruction, targeted small-group interventions, and intensive individualized interventions.

Enrichment for high achievers isn’t the focus of MTSS, and withdrawal from instruction isn’t a tier. Tier 1 isn’t just optional or alone without targeted or intensive supports, and Tier 2 isn’t primarily about diagnostic testing.