What initial step should a teacher take to develop an appropriate differentiation plan for a student struggling with comprehension?

The initial step of asking text-based questions to assess reading rates and comprehension is fundamental in developing an effective differentiation plan. This assessment provides the teacher with critical insights into the student's specific struggles with comprehension. By understanding exactly where the student is experiencing difficulties—such as identifying key ideas, summarizing content, or drawing inferences—educators can tailor their instructional strategies to meet those unique needs.

Gathering this detailed assessment data enables the teacher to determine the most appropriate interventions or modifications. For example, if a student struggles with summarizing, the teacher might incorporate targeted skills practice in summarizing techniques or provide graphic organizers. This targeted approach ensures that any differentiation efforts are evidence-based and directly aligned with the student's areas of need, ultimately enhancing their comprehension skills more effectively than general strategies would.