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Press RoomFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Engaging Phonics Instruction for Struggling ReadersSimon S.I.O.™ incorporates individualized instruction that builds decoding, word mastery and comprehension skills for students with phonological deficits, the skills that are the very foundation of fluent reading. October 30, 2002—Volo, Illinois—
Educators' need for researched-based, multi-level phonics instruction has been met, announces Don Johnston Incorporated. Simon S.I.O.™ incorporates individualized instruction that builds decoding, word mastery and comprehension skills for students with phonological deficits, the skills that are the very foundation of fluent reading. Designed by Ted Hasselbring, Ed.D and Laura Goin, M.Ed"Simon S.I.O. meets the needs of children who have difficulties in reading by providing systematic instruction in the alphabetic principle, reading words by mapping speech sounds to parts of words, and achieving fluency. Simon S.I.O. is based on the best instructional research to date and is grounded in extensive field-testing. Because it is computer-based and incorporates a personal tutor, students move at their own pace, enjoy individualized lessons and feedback and receive extensive practice on the skills necessary for mastering phonological awareness. Simon S.I.O. is our contribution to helping all students become competent readers. We believe your students will enjoy using Simon S.I.O. as much as we enjoyed developing it." Simon S.I.O. Stages 1 & 2 for Macintosh and Windows each include 33 levels of instruction with eight activities at each level. The varying activities help students apply their learning through practice. These activities address diverse learning styles as well as target distinct skills by altering the approach. Comprehension strategies are integrated throughout. Students are prompted to make meaning as they read and predict what the accompanying graphics will look like. As a result, they understand that reading is more than just saying words. Simon, the tutor, offers encouragement, help and corrective feedback. Students self-assess at each level as they are periodically given accuracy and speed awards. Lesson plans, off computer and extension activities help teachers integrate skills into the curriculum, and provide options for further practice both in the classroom and at home. Detailed progress reports, which include student recorded reading samples, help teachers assess progress and problematic areas. Data can be displayed electronically or printed to include in student portfolios. For students who need to use a switch, Simon S.I.O. provides seamless accessibility built-in to every activity at every level. Release Schedule
Simon S.I.O Stage 1 Release Date: NOW! Photos accompanying this Press Release are the property of Don Johnston Incorporated and may only be used and/or published as accompanying photos with the information found in this release or with specific written approval from Don Johnston or members of his marketing staff. Don Johnston Incorporated | |