The Science of Reading Formula

Fan Favorite- Stop Drilling Sight Word Flashcards! (Do This Instead)


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Are your students still struggling with sight words even after hours of drilling flashcards? You're not alone—and there’s a better way. In this episode, we're diving into research-backed strategies that actually help K-2 students retain high-frequency words without relying on visual memory.

In this episode, we’ll talk about:

  • Why traditional sight word flashcard drills don’t work.
  • The 3-step shift to help students memorize words on autopilot.
  • How to align sight words with phonics instruction for better results.
  • A simple tool (sound maps!) that builds fluency and retention.
  • Why sorting by phonics rules is a game changer.

Show Links

Sight Word Lists by Phonics Skill on TPT / Free inside the Formula
Phonics Curriculum- Printable Lessons
Free Sound Map
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The Science of Reading FormulaBy Malia Hollowell

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