Supporting Struggling Students: Practical Approaches for Teachers

Many learners have trouble understanding new concepts, following instructions, or finishing tasks. With the right support, these struggling students can overcome their difficulties and succeed in school. This guide gives teachers four practical approaches: building positive relationships, differentiated instruction, scaffolded learning, and working with colleagues, support staff, and parents.

On this page 6 sections

Build positive relationships first

A good relationship with a teacher is the first step in helping a struggling student. When learners trust their teacher, they are more willing to ask for help, take risks, and join classroom activities. Positive teacher-student relationships are linked to higher motivation, engagement, and achievement.

Ways to build these relationships:

• Get to know each learner personally. Learn their interests and what is happening in their lives.
• Show empathy and understanding. Struggling students often feel discouraged, so patience matters.
• Be approachable and responsive. Make it easy for learners to come to you with questions.
• Use positive reinforcement. Praise effort, progress, and achievements, not only correct answers. This builds confidence and keeps learners motivated.

Use differentiated instruction

Differentiated instruction means teaching in ways that respond to the different learning needs in one classroom. It lets you give struggling students targeted help that fits their needs.

Practical strategies:

• Use a variety of teaching methods and materials, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology-based resources.
• Break complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
• Give learners chances to work on their own or in small groups.
• Use formative assessments to check progress and adjust your teaching.

When instruction matches their needs, struggling students feel more engaged and supported, and they build the skills and knowledge they need.

Use scaffolded learning

Scaffolded learning gives learners support and guidance while they learn new skills. It helps them build on what they already know and move step by step toward harder tasks.

Practical strategies:

• Show examples and models of completed work.
• Break complex tasks into smaller steps.
• Give prompts and cues that guide learners through a task.
• Offer feedback and support throughout the learning process.

The goal is the right level of support: enough to help the learner succeed, then less as they become more confident and capable.

Work with colleagues, support staff, and parents

No teacher has to do this alone. Working with others gives struggling students more resources and help.

• Colleagues: Share strategies and ideas, and help each other spot areas for improvement.
• Support staff: Learning support assistants can give one-on-one help, including extra instruction, feedback, and guidance.
• Parents and caregivers: Communicate with them regularly about progress and areas to improve. At home, they can help with homework, give encouragement, and provide a positive learning environment.

Keep in mind

• There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each learner has unique needs. Work closely with each student to find where they struggle, then give targeted support.
• Success is more than grades. Supporting struggling students also means building confidence, self-esteem, and resilience. Set achievable goals, give positive reinforcement, and celebrate progress.

By combining these approaches, teachers can create a supportive and inclusive classroom that meets the needs of all learners, whatever their ability level.

Frequently asked questions