On-Demand Webinar:
ReadtopiaGO, Comprehensive Emergent Literacy,
and the Science of Reading
Presented by:
Karen Erickson, PhD
Dr. Erickson builds on her January webinar focused on the Science of Reading by diving deeper into emergent literacy for young children and older students with the most extensive support needs. In this one-hour session, she will demonstrate how ReadtopiaGO provides a comprehensive emergent literacy framework grounded in both the science of learning and the science of reading.
Participants will explore specific instructional routines within ReadtopiaGO that are designed to create meaningful literacy experiences, promote active engagement, and support students with significant cognitive disabilities in developing foundational reading skills.
A Comprehensive Approach to Emergent Literacy
Emergent literacy is the foundation for later reading success. Dr. Erickson will describe the essential elements of a comprehensive emergent literacy program and explain the two conditions necessary for emergent level learning success. Attendees will learn how structured, research-aligned routines can accelerate literacy development for students who require extensive instructional support.
Using examples from ReadtopiaGO, Dr. Erickson will illustrate how instruction can intentionally reflect both cognitive science principles and evidence-based reading research, ensuring literacy instruction is systematic, meaningful, and accessible.
Applying the Science of Reading to Students with Extensive Support Needs:
This session will clarify how the Science of Reading applies to students with significant disabilities and how educators can implement comprehensive emergent literacy practices in inclusive and specialized settings. Practical strategies and examples will help participants connect theory to daily classroom instruction.
Learning Objectives for This Webinar
At the end of this webinar, attendees will be able to:
• Identify the two conditions of emergent literacy learning success.
• Describe the elements of a comprehensive emergent literacy program.
• Describe two or more ways that ReadtopiaGO reflects the science of learning and the science of reading.
This webinar is intended for special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, literacy specialists, instructional coaches, and administrators who support students with extensive support needs in early childhood and K–12 settings. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how comprehensive emergent literacy instruction aligns with the Science of Reading and how ReadtopiaGO can support implementation in their schools.
You will be provided with a form to fill out to receive a certificate of completion. Registered attendees will receive a link to the recording within a few days of the scheduled live webinar.
Visit the Building Wings for additional free webinars for special educators, including upcoming live webinars and access to on-demand recordings of previously held live webinars. You can also sign up to receive an email notification when live webinars are posted.
