Action Research Project

Problem: In a middle school class (grades 5-8), there is a notable issue with reading comprehension skills among a subgroup of students, hindering their academic progress and may lead to further difficulties in their future education.

A Response to Intervention (RTI) approach tailored for reading comprehension improvement is the most appropriate intervention to address this problem. This approach involves a multi-tiered system of support, allowing students to receive additional assistance based on their needs.

Action Steps:

Screening: Identify students with reading comprehension difficulties through a brief assessment tool. This step is crucial in determining which students require additional support and resources to improve their reading comprehension skills.

Tiered Instruction: Implement a three-tiered intervention system.

Tier 1: Universal screening and classroom instruction for all students. This tier ensures that students receive high-quality instruction in reading comprehension, with the aim of preventing any further decline in their skills.

Tier 2: Targeted instruction for students who are struggling with reading comprehension but not yet identified as needing more intensive support. This tier provides additional resources and targeted instruction to help these students improve their skills.

Tier 3: Intensive intervention for students who continue to struggle with reading comprehension despite receiving Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports. This tier involves more individualized and targeted support to help these students make significant progress in their reading comprehension skills.

Data Collection: Regularly assess students' progress using validated measures to adjust interventions accordingly.

Professional Development: Provide teachers with training on evidence-based strategies for improving reading comprehension.

a) National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD): The NCLD is a leading organization in the field of learning disabilities and provides resources and information on effective interventions for students with reading difficulties. They offer guidance on how to implement RTI approaches in schools, which can help improve reading comprehension skills among struggling students.

b) International Dyslexia Association (IDA): The IDA is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with dyslexia and related reading disabilities. They provide evidence-based information on effective reading interventions, including RTI approaches, which can be useful in addressing the reading comprehension difficulties faced by some middle school students.

c) What Works Clearinghouse (WWC): The WWC is a U.S. Department of Education organization that reviews and evaluates research on educational interventions. They provide a list of effective interventions for struggling readers,

including RTI approaches, which can be helpful in implementing an evidence-based intervention to improve reading comprehension in middle school classrooms.

Parental Involvement: Engage parents in the process by sharing progress reports, suggesting at-home activities, and fostering a collaborative approach to support.

Continuous Monitoring: Regularly review data and adjust interventions based on individual or group needs.

Celebrate Success: Acknowledge and celebrate improvements to boost students' confidence and motivation.

By incorporating the RTI approach, tailored to reading comprehension, this action research project aims to enhance academic performance and address the specific needs of the identified group of students in the middle school class. By identifying students with reading comprehension difficulties through a brief assessment tool and implementing a three-tiered intervention system, schools can provide the necessary support and resources to help these students improve their reading skills and prevent further academic challenges.

Decide on a Tier 2 or Tier 3 Intervention. Show data for one student. How is class performing?