18. Predictable Chart Writing, Canva, and more: Oh My! Our Literacy Journey Continues with Writing!

Speaker: Sharon Redmon, M.S., ATP

Session Handouts:
QR Code to Presentation Slides
CANVA Template for PCW

Session Description:
The complex task of writing for our students with significant disabilities and complex communication needs can be daunting. In this session, schema-building activities continue to play a part while we explore practical strategies to actively engage our learners with complex communication needs in written expression activities. We will learn not only about the developmental writing stages but how our students with CCN can be engaged throughout those stages. Attendees will learn how to use conventional chart writing tools and interactive tools such as Canva™. Students become the center of their writing by removing the background in video clips and pictures. We will also explore how to encourage spelling and typing along with a balanced approach to using an AAC users' icons to support their writing. Highlighted again will be the following tools and strategies; The Expanding Expression Tool™, Descriptive Teaching Techniques, Canva™, Alternative Pencil, Readtopia™, Reading Avenue: Boardmaker™ (however, any Literacy curriculum can be used), and Youtube™.

Credits: Act 48, ASHA, Psych
Audience: Special Education Teachers, Speech therapists, General Education Teachers, Supervisors/Administrators, Assistive Technology Specialists, Occupational Therapists and/or Physical Therapists, Parents, Guardians, Family Members, Paraprofessionals

Speaker Bio:
Sharon Redmon is a SpEd, GenEd teacher, and AT Specialist with over 20 years of experience.  She holds an M.S. in Adaptive Education: Assistive Technology from St. Norbert College and ATP from RESNA and is a Doctoral student at Penn State University. Sharon's passion for AT and especially AAC began with her first teaching assignment in WI, where she became involved in WATI, and continues today with the WI AAC Network school committee and founding member of the Wisconsin Assistive Technology Regional Networks (WATRN).  Her varied career placements within WI, WA, and overseas schools have given her unique opportunities to combine her passion for AAC, literacy, and Assistive Technology. She is passionate about sharing her experiences with others so that we can all continue to learn together.

Email: shredmon@communicationspaaces.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheShredmon
Twitter: #TheShredmon
Website: https://communicationspaaces.com/