Research

 Student Samples Data & Research

The Expanding Expression Tool (EET) Kit is designed to be used by teachers, literacy coaches, reading specialists, parents, speech-language pathologists and other specialists to support academics.

Language arts is essential for academic success. It is at the heart of each curriculum area. Without oral language, students may have difficulty organizing information while speaking, writing, or pulling valuable information from their reading material. They may have trouble defining or describing vocabulary or objects. The EET was designed to make things easier for all students. It provides structure for the struggling students and enhances the skills of those students and enhances the skills of those students already strong in the language arts area.

The EET provides students with a hands-on approach to describing and defining. As a mnemonic device, it provides visual and tactile information which facilitates improved language organization. The kit itself is designed to allow you to follow a hierarchical approach taking student's expression from words to paragraphs to reports. Therefore, it can be used by a variety of ages.

The kit consists of the EET, a manual, stickers for written expression, object cards for describing activities and a poster.

The EET is color symbol coded. Students learn the code and from this code are able to provide detailed descriptions including the following elements: the category the item belongs to, the function of the object, the appearance, what the item is made of, the parts of the item, and it's location.

This EET has been classroom tested in both regular and special education classes.

Frequently asked questions
Do I need to purchase the full EET kit, or can I just buy individual materials?

We highly recommend starting with the full EET kit. It includes the strand, manual, icons, and all the instructional strategies needed to use the tool effectively. While we do offer supporting materials separately (like strands or steppers), they are only available to those who already own or are purchasing a kit. The kit provides the foundation for success.
What’s the difference between the EET kits? How do I know which one to get?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

  • EET Kit: Best for individuals or small groups. Includes the core strand, manual, object cards, prompt cards, stickers, easel, dice, and icons.
  • EET Combo Kit: Adds student strands and steppers to the original kit for increased group interaction and movement-based learning.
  • EET Works Kit: Ideal for full classroom implementation. Includes multiple strands, dry-erase boards, magnets, posters, and other reinforcements for large-group instruction.
  • Ultimate Early Elementary Pack (EETCHY Adventure Pack): Perfect for PreK–2nd grade. Includes two EETCHY books, a plush EETCHY with interactive features, posters, the EET Kit, and fun early-learning tools like the Beary Good Sentences board and EETCHY Steppers.

Need help deciding? Email us at eetsmiths@gmail.com and we’ll guide you!
Do I need to attend EET training to use the materials?

No, training is not required, but it is highly recommended. The EET Kit includes a detailed manual, but training gives you extra insight, real examples, and tips for stronger implementation.
Is the Expanding Expression Tool evidence-based?

Yes. The EET is research-supported and evidence-informed. It's used in over 35,000 classrooms, with user data showing improvement in oral language, writing, and vocabulary. Formal research is ongoing, and we’re happy to share data upon request.
What grade levels or ability levels is the EET designed for?

The EET is flexible and designed for all ability levels—from preschool through high school. It's used with general education students, English Language Learners, special education, and gifted students alike. The scaffolded design means it grows with the learner.
Can I use the EET at home, or is it only for schools?

You can definitely use it at home! Parents, homeschoolers, and private tutors use the EET to build vocabulary, oral expression, and writing skills in fun and accessible ways.
Our school requires vendor paperwork (W-9, vendor forms, etc.). Can you help?

Absolutely. Email eetsmiths@gmail.com and we’ll provide everything you need to set us up as a vendor.
Do you accept school purchase orders (POs)?

Yes! We accept POs. Please email them to eetsmiths@gmail.com.
How do I get started?

Start with the EET Kit—it includes everything you need. From there, explore our supplemental materials, trainings, and the EETCHY Adventure Pack to enhance your program. Questions? Email eetsmiths@gmail.com—we’re happy to help!