2026 1472

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

instruction, literacy & inclusion

Format:

lecture

Subject Level:

beginner

Age Span:

preschool
kindergarten - grade 6
grades 7-12

Target Audience:

AT specialist
autism specialist
educator
occupational therapist
special educator
speech language pathologist
teacher of the visually impaired

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

0.3

ACVREP CEs:

2.5

Presentation Length: 2hrs 30mins

Date and Time (Central Daylight Time):

  • October 21, 2026
  • 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM

Location:

Plaza 1

Description:

Alphabet instruction is traditionally a part of every educational program for students with significant disabilities, including those with Cortical Vision Impairment. Too often, instruction consists of ‘letter-of-the-week’ approach or other drill and kill methods. Students often learn to identify letters but with little understanding how to USE letters for real reading and writing. Put away the drill and come see some alternatives! This fast-paced session will show a range of alphabet activities that can be used throughout the day. Adaptations for students with physical disabilities and vision impairments will be shown throughout. Participants will leave with a list of things to try Monday morning!

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Identify the steps of an explicit alphabet lesson.

• Identify 3 non-drill based alphabet activities.

• Identify 3 alphabet activities which incorporate alternative pencils.

Disclosures:

Gretchen is Director of Assistive Technology & Literacy Instruction at the International Academy of Hope in NYC, Provides state level, district wide & school trainings across US
Provides consultation services to Building Wings Inc.
Has written materials for Teachers Pay Teachers

Non-Financial Disclosures: Consulted with Ellenson Integration Enterprises & other vendors
Has written: Articles for Closing the Gap and ATIA journals, Case study for published book

Tova receives a salary from the International Academy of Hope. She has no other disclosures.