What Is SIM?
SIM includes two arms that work together to improve literacy: Learning Strategies (LS) and Content Enhancement Routines (CER). LS use explicit and systematic instructional procedures. CER implementation is supported by the SMARTER Instructional Cycle, an instructional planning cycle that promotes effective teaching and learning of critical content. Schools and teachers may implement a combination of LS and/or CER.
For more information, visit www.sim.ku.edu.
Learning Strategies
SIM encompasses more than 30 specific Learning Strategies that can help students overcome specific learning difficulties that impede literacy, from identifying words in text to completing assignments on time to writing complete essays. Students use SIM Learning Strategies--an approach to learning and using information--to help them understand information and solve problems. Students who do not know or use good learning strategies often learn passively and ultimately fail in school. SIM Learning Strategy instruction focuses on making students active learners.
SIM also includes tools that help students participate effectively in class, work together in teams, organize their desks or lockers, and interact with each other. Of particular note to Montana Educators is Possible Selves, with which students examine their futures, think about goals that are important to them, and how to reach those goals to become their "possible selves."
Content Enhancement Routines
The Content Enhancement instructional method uses powerful teaching devices to organize and present curriculum content in an understandable and easy-to-learn manner. Teachers identify content that they deem to be most critical and teach it using a powerfully designed teaching routine that actively engages students with the content. All of the routines promote direct, explicit instruction. This type of instruction helps students who are struggling, but it also facilitates problem-solving and critical-thinking skills for students who are doing well in class.