Understanding Student Challenges with the BETLS Teacher Tool

Teachers often face the complex task of identifying and supporting students who struggle academically, emotionally, or behaviourally. The BETLS Teacher Tool is a practical framework designed to help educators systematically understand student challenges and guide appropriate responses.

What is the BETLS Tool?

BETLS stands for Behaviour, Emotions, Thinking, Learning, and Social. It encourages teachers to observe and reflect on these five domains to gain a holistic picture of a student’s difficulties. Rather than focusing on one symptom or behaviour, BETLS promotes a deeper understanding of underlying issues.

Breaking Down BETLS:

• Behaviour: What observable actions or reactions does the student display? Are there patterns or triggers?

• Emotions: What feelings might the student be experiencing (e.g., anxiety, frustration, sadness)?

• Thinking: How might the student’s thought processes or beliefs impact their behaviour and learning?

• Learning: Are there specific academic skills or cognitive challenges affecting performance?

• Social: How does the student interact with peers and adults? Are there social difficulties or isolation?

Why Use BETLS?

• Holistic understanding: BETLS helps teachers look beyond surface behaviours to underlying causes.

• Structured approach: It provides a consistent way to document observations and identify areas needing support.

• Collaboration: The tool can be shared with psychologists, parents, and other professionals to create tailored intervention plans.

• Empowerment: Teachers feel more confident identifying student needs and advocating for supports.

How to Use BETLS in Your Classroom

1. Observe: Take notes on student behaviour and interactions across the BETLS domains.

2. Reflect: Consider possible emotional states, thought patterns, and learning challenges linked to behaviours.

3. Document: Use the BETLS sheet to record your observations systematically.

4. Collaborate: Share findings with school counsellors, psychologists, and parents to plan supports.

5. Review: Regularly update your observations to monitor progress and adjust strategies.

   
   

Conclusion

The BETLS Teacher Tool is a powerful resource for teachers seeking to understand and support their students more effectively. By considering Behaviour, Emotions, Thinking, Learning, and Social factors, educators can move from surface-level responses to meaningful interventions — improving outcomes for students and creating a positive classroom environment.

If you’d like further support or to discuss how Innerbloom Psychology can assist your school, please visit our enquiry page to get in touch.