Use this guide to review data, decide next steps, and adjust teaching to support each child’s progress

1. Review & Decide

• Review collected data on the child.
• Ask: Is the child making progress as expected?

2. If Yes (Making Progress)

• Continue evidence-based curriculum and assessment practices.
• Set a new goal.

3. If No (Not Making Progress)

Adjust Curriculum:

• Simplify the goal.
• Change setting or schedule.

Adjust Teaching Practices:

• Provide more practice opportunities.
• Give more time to respond.
• Offer additional assistance/support.
• Use curriculum modifications.
• Use teaching loops (model > prompt > respond > feedback > repeat).
• Seek help from a coach or specialist (if needed).

4. Recheck Progress

• Has the child accomplished the goal?

If Yes:

• Continue effective practices.
• Set a new goal.

If No:

• Continue adjusting curriculum and teaching practices.

Quick Reminders:

• Use data regularly to guide decisions.
• Make small, intentional adjustments.
• Keep goals clear and achievable.

Source:

National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning. (2014). Tools for teachers: Using data to inform teaching—Decision making chart. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Head Start.