When creating a workbook in Whizzimo, you can select a Phonetic Workbook or a Sight Word Workbook. Each type has unique features designed to support different instructional needs.
Phonetic Workbooks
Phonetic workbooks are ideal for word lists where sounds can be broken apart using common phonics rules. For example:
d-o-g
ch-e-ck
c-a-tch
These workbooks help students systematically learn to decode words.
Sight Word Workbooks
Sight word workbooks allow for both phonetic and non-phonetic words. This flexibility supports curricula that encourage students to memorize phonetic words after they have mastered decoding skills.
The word "and" is phonetic but may be treated as a sight word once familiar.
Default Design for Sight Words
Sight words in activities appear in red letters with a clear background by default. You can customize this in Tile Settings under the Tile Design tab. Sight word workbooks include a red dot in the upper-right corner for easy identification.
How Activities Differ for Sight Word Workbooks
Some activities function differently in sight word workbooks:
Tileboard: Only letters a–z and some punctuation are available.
Workbook Tiles: Grayed out because words are memorized rather than built.
Mini Tile Board: Grayed out for the same reason as Workbook Tiles.
Wordcards: Uses Tile Design settings for sight word classification, but otherwise functions the same.
Timed Reading: Reflects Tile Design settings for sight words.
Flashcards: Letters follow Tile Design settings, but word division (like onset and rime) is not available.
Letter Cards: Unavailable, as only red letters a–z are used.
Spelling Activity: Uses Tile Design settings. Only letters a–z and some punctuation are available.
Whiteboard: Functions the same as in phonetic workbooks.
Blank Tiles: Functions the same as in phonetic workbooks.
Using Other Tools
The Sentence Parts, Sentences, Passages, and PDF Viewer tools are available in both workbook types. However, in sight word workbooks, you must manually add content for these tools. By understanding these differences, you can choose the workbook type that best aligns with your teaching goals.