I don't think these two terms refer to the exact same thing.  What is the difference?

Maybe this will help! :)

http://www.dailywritingtips.com/the-difference-between-phonics-and-phonetics/

Hi!  I lke to think of these two terms in this way.  Phonemic awareness is the recognition of sounds in spoken words.  Phonics is when you put letters to the sounds like in beginning reading and spelling.  Think of it this way, your students could do phonemic awareness activities with their eyes closed.  That visual always helps me :)    Joni