SMILE - Frequently Asked Questions

To gain a fuller understanding of the SMILE strategy, you may wish to come along to our 90 minute after-school workshop: SMILE - Supporting Beginning Readers

Q. Is SMILE suitable for use with struggling readers in the middle and upper school?
A. SMILE can be adapted for older readers by increasing the complexity and sophistication of the components of the model.

Q. What steps are required to implement SMILE?
A. Purchase the SMILE kit and register tutors and the school coordinator for the full day workshop which provides:

Q. Should teachers attend the SMILE inservice?
A. It is strongly advised that schools send one teacher who will assist in coordinating the SMILE strategy within the school.

Q. Is the SMILE strategy only suitable for teacher aides to use with small groups?
A. Some schools are training teachers in the SMILE strategy to address literacy standards across the school. Components of the strategy can be effectively implemented with the whole class within the Reading Hour and the Phonemic Game Cards provide a valuable learning centre activity for students. The SMILE consultant will provide flexibility options for implementing SMILE at the workshop.

Q. Do all students move through at the same pace?
A. No. The SMILE Phonemic Game Cards enable students to consolidate existing knowledge and integrate new learnings at their own pace. This resource makes the learning flexible in meeting the needs of individuals.

Q. Are there additional support materials for students?
A. The SMILE Deskmat features a small image of each of the Phonemic Game Cards to assist children with handwriting and writing. Side A features the alphabet A to Z with 33 pictures which represent the initial sounds. The flipside features each of the initial blends and digraphs with a picture to represent each. The SMILE Deskmat can also be used by students on Accelerate strategy to play the game Alphabet Chase.