As an RBT working in schools, I've seen firsthand how some students face significant hurdles when it comes to learning. Whether it's a student struggling with reading, math, or social-emotional skills, intensive instruction can make a huge difference. This isn’t just throwing more work at kids; it’s about giving them tailored, focused support to meet their unique needs. Let’s break it down.
What is Intensive Instruction?
When we talk about intensive instruction, we’re referring to highly structured, targeted teaching designed for students who aren’t making expected progress with standard classroom instruction. Think of it as the extra scaffolding they need to help build skills that might otherwise stay out of reach. It’s individualized, data-driven, and delivered in smaller group settings or one-on-one.
This isn’t about "fixing" kids—it's about meeting them where they are and giving them the tools to succeed. For students with disabilities or those who need extra help to catch up to grade level, intensive instruction often ties directly to their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals.
Manny Huecias, RBT
How Does It Work?
- Focused, Consistent, and Flexible
One thing that stands out about intensive instruction is its structure. Lessons are short but packed with meaningful practice, and they happen regularly—daily or multiple times a week. At the same time, flexibility is key. If a method isn’t working, the approach shifts based on ongoing data collection.
- Using Data to Drive Instruction
Here’s where the science kicks in. Educators, interventionists, and specialists (like RBTs) use assessment data to identify what a student needs to work on, whether it’s decoding words or solving multi-step problems. This same data guides adjustments to instruction. It’s all about zooming in on the exact skill gap and addressing it directly.
- Small Groups or 1:1 Support
Unlike general classroom instruction, where teachers juggle the needs of 20-30 students, intensive instruction happens in much smaller settings. This allows for more direct interaction between the teacher and the student. Students get immediate feedback, lots of practice, and the chance to ask questions without feeling like they’re slowing down the class.
Why Does Intensive
Instruction Matter?
Let’s face it: falling behind in school can snowball into bigger issues. A student struggling with reading might start avoiding books altogether, which only widens the gap. This is where intensive instruction can be a game-changer.
- Closes Skill Gaps
Students get targeted interventions that address their specific challenges. For example, if a student struggles with phonics, their lessons will focus on breaking down sounds and letters rather than pushing them to read full paragraphs they’re not ready for.
- Builds Confidence
Success breeds confidence. When students experience progress—no matter how small—it boosts their self-esteem. They start to see themselves as capable learners, which motivates them to keep trying.
- Prevents Long-Term Struggles
Intervening early and intensively can prevent bigger issues down the road. A student who catches up in math during 3rd grade is less likely to struggle in middle school algebra.
Manny Huecias, RBT
The Role of Collaboration
Intensive instruction works best when everyone is on the same page—teachers, interventionists, administrators, and parents. Collaboration might include aligning classroom activities with intervention goals, ensuring consistency in teaching strategies, or sharing progress data to adjust plans as needed..
Parental involvement is another big piece of the puzzle. Parents can reinforce strategies at home, whether it’s practicing flashcards, reading together, or following behavior plans designed to support skill development.
Challenges and Misconceptions
There’s a misconception that intensive instruction is just more of the same teaching—but louder or longer. That couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s about teaching smarter, not harder.
That said, intensive instruction isn’t without challenges. It requires time, resources, and buy-in from everyone involved. Schools need trained staff and systems in place to make it work effectively.
Final Thoughts
Intensive instruction isn’t just a strategy—it’s a lifeline for students who need extra support. It’s about ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed, no matter where they start.
As someone who sees this play out every day, I can tell you that the effort is worth it. Watching a student master a skill they once thought was impossible? That’s the kind of magic that makes this work so rewarding.
Let’s keep advocating for these learners and ensuring they get the support they deserve. After all, when they win, we all win.
Manny Huecias, RBT
written by
Manny Huecias
Manny Huecias is a school-based behavior technician specializing in social, emotional, and behavioral challenges experienced by elementary-aged student populations as well as augmented instructional design. He has been a community pop-up virtual learning facilitator and avid volunteer in his community who brings a practical, systems-aware perspective to supporting complex students and the adults doing their best to help them. Outside of his professional work, he has been a special needs inclusion summer camp counselor and an active youth leader in his church. Manny is a Registered Behavior Technician with college coursework in education and psychology.
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