Grade-level learning should be attainable for every student. Many can understand the ideas, but are held back by barriers that have nothing to do with ability.
This guide shares seven simple strategies that help more students access grade-level content, remain engaged and show what they can do.
1. Make content accessible, not easier
Students don’t need lowered expectations. They need a clearer way to get started. Try these simple routines:
- Pre-teach key vocabulary in plain language. Highlight important words before the lesson and give simple definitions or examples to build confidence.
- Break instructions into short steps. Present directions in simple, numbered steps so students know exactly what to do first, next and last.
- Model how to approach complex tasks. Demonstrate the first step and explain what’s happening so students understand how to begin and feel more confident taking on the task.
Why this helps
Students stay engaged because they understand the context from the start.
2. Build background knowledge before the lesson
Many students struggle because they’re missing context, not ability. Set students up with the context they need.
- Share short previews or warm-up questions. Give students a quick look at the topic to connect new learning to what they already know.
- Use images or quick videos to set the scene. Visuals help students understand the topic faster, especially those who need more time with language.
- Give multilingual learners time to discuss ideas in the language they know best. Let students talk through key ideas in their first language before switching to English during the lesson.
Why this helps
Students stay engaged because they understand the context from the start.
Many students struggle because they’re missing context, not ability.
3. Give students more than one way to engage with text
Access shouldn’t depend on a single method. Help students enter the text with confidence:
- Read text aloud or provide audio options. Let students listen to the passage so they can follow along without decoding every word.
- Use graphic organizers to show structure. Give students a visual map so they can see how key points connect before reading.
- Offer a short summary before the full text. Give students a brief, simple overview so they know the main ideas before reading the full passage.
Why this helps
Students who struggle with reading can still take part in grade-level thinking.
4. Use routines that reduce cognitive load
Predictable routines help students focus on content, not instructions. Make classroom routines steady and predictable.
- Keep task formats consistent. Use the same layout for common activities so students don’t have to relearn the process each time.
- Use simple color or symbol cues. Add small visual signals to highlight key steps or information.
- Provide sentence starters or success criteria. Give students a clear way to begin and a picture of what proficient work looks like.
Why this helps
Predictable routines free up mental space so students can concentrate on the content.
5. Support independence over time
Access should build confidence, not dependence. Build habits that promote independence.
- Teach students how to check their understanding. Show them simple ways to pause, reflect and make sure what they are reading makes sense.
- Offer small choices in how they show learning. Let students use writing, speaking, drawing or another format that fits their strengths.
- Encourage students to use the format that works best for them. Help students identify what supports help them learn and allow them to choose those options.
Why this helps
Students develop the skills to work with less adult support.
6. Make access part of planning, not an add-on
Access works best when it’s built into everyday practice. Plan with access from the start.
- Plan for access when choosing texts, tasks and assessments. Think about where students may get stuck and add supports before the lesson begins.
- Check that supports work across devices and for all students. Make sure tools and formats work the same way on different platforms so no one is left out.
- Gather quick feedback from teachers and students. Ask what helped, what didn’t and what could be clearer next time.
Why this helps
Consistency leads to stronger engagement and steady growth.
7. Strengthen collaboration across teams
Shared approaches create smoother experiences for students.
Create shared systems of support:
- Connect general education, special education and multilingual teams. Align supports and expectations across classrooms.
- Share templates for vocabulary or scaffolded texts. Use simple, shared tools to save time and build consistency.
- Help families understand simple access strategies at home. Offer quick tips so families can support the same approaches outside school.
Why this helps
Students experience fewer gaps across environments.
What this looks like in practice
When access is part of daily instruction, students join conversations earlier and take on grade-level tasks with more confidence. They begin to show growth and rely less on one-to-one support because they know how to get started and what to expect.
Most importantly, students feel included in the learning community and are able to take part in ways that reflect their strengths. These shifts help districts close gaps, strengthen access and support diverse thinkers across classrooms.
Introducing Read&Write
If your district is exploring ways to make everyday instruction more accessible, Read&Write offers an effective starting point. It helps remove common reading and writing barriers so students can engage with content, participate confidently, and demonstrate what they know.
With supports like read-aloud, vocabulary tools, and screen masking, plus features that help students express ideas, Read&Write gives learners more ways to access grade-level material without adding to teachers’ workload.