Strategic Instruction Model (SIM™)
Comprehensive, evidence-based instructional tools and programs that equip teachers to teach effectively and help students thrive—in school and beyond.
SIM What, Why, & How
What: Instructional Tools and Interventions
Key Benefits:
• Enhances teacher effectiveness through structured, research-backed methods.
• Promotes inclusive education by supporting diverse learners.
• Builds student independence and confidence.
• Enhances teacher effectiveness through structured, research-backed methods.
• Promotes inclusive education by supporting diverse learners.
• Builds student independence and confidence.
Why: Impact
Since 1978, the Strategic Instruction Model (SIM) has been transforming classrooms and empowering both teachers and learners. Discover how our evidence-based strategies have made a lasting impact—improving academic outcomes, fostering independence, and changing lives for the better.
How: Access SIM
We're glad you're here! Whether you're a parent, teacher, or administrator, we're here to help you discover the SIM solution that best fits your needs. Explore our resources and find the tools that can make a lasting difference in teaching and learning.
Get SIM Learning
SIM Micro-Credentials: Show What You Know
SIM micro-credentials—also known as digital badges—highlight your commitment to professional growth and evidence-based instruction. These credentials recognize your mastery of SIM strategies and your dedication to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed. By earning micro-credentials, you not only validate your expertise but also demonstrate your investment in making a meaningful impact in the classroom.
SIM Events
Stay connected and informed! Visit the SIM Events page for the latest updates on upcoming conferences, webinars, online professional development sessions, and more. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise or connect with fellow educators, there's something for everyone.
SIM Professional Developer Resources
Explore a curated collection of tools, materials, and links designed specifically for SIM Professional Developers. Whether you're planning a training, supporting implementation, or deepening your own expertise, these resources will help you deliver high-quality, evidence-based instruction with confidence.
SIM Overview
Podcast
Get an introduction to the Strategic Instruction Model (SIM) through our SIM Overview Podcast, created using NotebookLM software. This episode provides a concise, engaging look at the foundations of SIM, its impact on teaching and learning, and how educators can begin implementing its strategies in their classrooms.
What People are Saying About our Materials and Services
Read these testimonials from individuals who have implemented SIM.
Willie, former SIM student and current Learning Strategies educator, FL
The power of SIM (when in the hands of someone who really cares), is giving kids a pathway to success, no matter what they struggle with. Seeing students achieve with Learning Strategies, when they’ve previously struggled, is the best reward.
Tina, GA
Since implementing and delivering SIM strategies, not only has student performance improved, but students frequently report that they actually used a strategy in another content area and that they felt more successful and less anxious by doing so.
Bonnie, TN
I don't know why this isn't all over the world at this point, and everyone isn't doing it because it works every time. If you implement with fidelity, your kids will grow.
Swipe to see more
What's Happening with SIM
News
Stay up to date with the latest developments from the Strategic Instruction Model (SIM) community. From national conference presentations and new research publications to grant awards and podcast features, SIM continues to make an impact in classrooms and beyond. https://www.facebook.com/KUCRL.SIM
Recent Highlights:
• We’re thrilled to announce that most of the Content Enhancement Routine manuals—along with several additional Learning Strategies manuals—are now available for purchase through the University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning (KUCRL)! - https://kucrl.company.site/
• SIM You Tube Channel - @SIMStrategicInstructionModel
• SIM was mentioned in an exciting survey by teachers, for teachers from the Project for Adolescent Literacy
• SIM Regional Conferences in Florida and North Carolina and online
• Presentations at NCTE, OSEP, and MACE Conferences
• New SIM Educator Newsletters available in the SIM Forum - https://sim.ku.edu/sim-forum
• SIM tools featured in Focus on Exceptional Children
• Podcast spotlight on the Science of Reading
• Library of Congress partnership award
• AI integration grant for literacy programs
• Xtreme Reading approved in Ohio
• KUCRL featured in national education reports
Recent Highlights:
• We’re thrilled to announce that most of the Content Enhancement Routine manuals—along with several additional Learning Strategies manuals—are now available for purchase through the University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning (KUCRL)! - https://kucrl.company.site/
• SIM You Tube Channel - @SIMStrategicInstructionModel
• SIM was mentioned in an exciting survey by teachers, for teachers from the Project for Adolescent Literacy
• SIM Regional Conferences in Florida and North Carolina and online
• Presentations at NCTE, OSEP, and MACE Conferences
• New SIM Educator Newsletters available in the SIM Forum - https://sim.ku.edu/sim-forum
• SIM tools featured in Focus on Exceptional Children
• Podcast spotlight on the Science of Reading
• Library of Congress partnership award
• AI integration grant for literacy programs
• Xtreme Reading approved in Ohio
• KUCRL featured in national education reports
Events
SIM Virtual Professional Learning For Educators - Explore our lineup of virtual learning opportunities designed to support educators in implementing evidence-based SIM strategies:
• Cross-Curricular Argumentation Routine
• Framing Routine
• Fundamentals of Paraphrasing and Summarizing Strategy
• Coming Soon: The Inference Strategy
• The Paragraph Writing Strategy
• Possible Selves Strategy (1st or 2nd edition)
• Sentence Writing Strategies (Fundamentals and Proficiency)
• Unit Organizer Routine
SIM Update Conferences for SIM Professional Developers, Specialists, and their invited Guests
• October - Nov. 2025 - SIM Virtual Conference
SIM Institutes - Want to Become a SIM Professional Developer? Choose the path that fits your experience and goals:
• Content Literacy Leadership Institute (CLLI)
• SIM PDer2 Pathway: A Two-Part Institute to Build Your Capacity Exponentially - A two-year path for Prospective SIM Professional Developers new to SIM
• Cross-Curricular Argumentation Routine
• Framing Routine
• Fundamentals of Paraphrasing and Summarizing Strategy
• Coming Soon: The Inference Strategy
• The Paragraph Writing Strategy
• Possible Selves Strategy (1st or 2nd edition)
• Sentence Writing Strategies (Fundamentals and Proficiency)
• Unit Organizer Routine
SIM Update Conferences for SIM Professional Developers, Specialists, and their invited Guests
• October - Nov. 2025 - SIM Virtual Conference
SIM Institutes - Want to Become a SIM Professional Developer? Choose the path that fits your experience and goals:
• Content Literacy Leadership Institute (CLLI)
• SIM PDer2 Pathway: A Two-Part Institute to Build Your Capacity Exponentially - A two-year path for Prospective SIM Professional Developers new to SIM
Why SIM?
• Empowering Student Independence: SIM equips students with practical, research-based tools to solve problems and learn independently.
• Streamlining Instruction: SIM emphasizes the use of instructional routines that help teachers organize and present curriculum content in clear, accessible, and easy-to-learn ways.
For over 40 years, the Strategic Instruction Model has been grounded in classroom practice and supported by rigorous research. Our findings confirm that high-quality teaching materials significantly enhance educators’ ability to deliver effective instruction. That’s why we’ve invested deeply in developing comprehensive instructional supports—including teacher manuals, student learning sheets, scoring rubrics, and technology tools.
Our long-standing collaboration with educators has led to the creation of materials that not only improve student learning outcomes but also enrich the teaching experience. Backed by decades of success stories and a proven track record, SIM continues to help schools meet the diverse needs of their students.
• Streamlining Instruction: SIM emphasizes the use of instructional routines that help teachers organize and present curriculum content in clear, accessible, and easy-to-learn ways.
For over 40 years, the Strategic Instruction Model has been grounded in classroom practice and supported by rigorous research. Our findings confirm that high-quality teaching materials significantly enhance educators’ ability to deliver effective instruction. That’s why we’ve invested deeply in developing comprehensive instructional supports—including teacher manuals, student learning sheets, scoring rubrics, and technology tools.
Our long-standing collaboration with educators has led to the creation of materials that not only improve student learning outcomes but also enrich the teaching experience. Backed by decades of success stories and a proven track record, SIM continues to help schools meet the diverse needs of their students.
The Strategic Instruction Model was developed at the University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning.