In MTSS, how do Tier I and Tier II differ?

• A. Tier I uses universal supports; Tier II uses targeted interventions in small groups.
• B. Tier II uses universal supports only.
• C. Tier I uses small-group targeted strategies; Tier II uses universal supports.
• D. They are identical.

Answer: (C)

MTSS uses layers of supports that scale with student needs. Tier I provides universal supports for all students in the general education setting, including high-quality instruction, consistent routines, and universal screening to catch difficulties early. When data show that some students aren’t meeting benchmarks after Tier I, Tier II adds targeted interventions delivered in small groups to address specific skill gaps while still providing core instruction. These interventions are more explicit and often more frequent, with ongoing progress monitoring to decide whether a student should return to Tier I, stay in Tier II, or move to more intensive supports. The key difference is that Tier I is universal and broad, while Tier II is targeted and small-group.