Effective Literacy Instruction for Learners with Complex Support Needs

What are today's best methods for teaching literacy skills to students with complex support needs—including autism, intellectual disability, and multiple disabilities? This comprehensive guidebook has up-to-date, evidence-based answers for pre- and in-service educators.

Developed by Copeland and Keefe, the experts behind the landmark book Effective Literacy Instruction for Students with Moderate or Severe Disabilities, this thoroughly reimagined follow-up reflects 10 years of groundbreaking research and advances in the field. You'll discover current recommended practices on critical topics, including how to build vocabulary, increase word recognition, enhance fluency, address cultural and linguistic diversity, and use academic standards when designing instruction. You'll also get the guidance you need to put theory into practice: powerful lesson planning strategies, practical examples, and case studies that bring key principles of instruction to life.

Whether used as a text for teachers in training or a guide for practicing educators, this book will help teachers of Grades K–12 increase access to literacy and prepare all learners for successful communication, employment, and community life.

• New section on literacy as a human right for all learners (the “why” of instruction)
• Chapters on how to design engaging learning environments
• Cutting-edge guidance on today's assistive technology and augmentative and alternative communication
• A dedicated chapter on how to use national and state standards in designing instruction
• Recommendations for adapting books and other materials to increase all learners' access
• Chapters on combining literacy and the arts to enhance student engagement
• More on literacy beyond high school, including community-based learning opportunities