What is the first step a teacher should take when adjusting instruction based on assessment data?

The first step a teacher should take when adjusting instruction based on assessment data is to identify which students need additional support. This is crucial because effective differentiation begins with understanding the specific needs of each student based on their performance and learning gaps indicated by the assessment data. By pinpointing which students require further assistance, a teacher can tailor interventions, modify instructional strategies, and provide targeted resources to ensure that all students can make progress.

Once this identification is complete, the teacher can then communicate findings to parents, consider formal services if necessary, or make environmental adjustments, but the initial focus must be on understanding who needs support and in which areas to foster effective learning outcomes.