ALTA Illinois presents:

Impactful Writing Instruction:
Supporting Students with Dyslexia and Related Challenges Through Assessment and Intervention

$30 Members | $45 Non-Members | 1.5 CEs

--------------

Children with cognitive or language-based learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, or traumatic brain injury, often struggle with written expression. Because writing is a complex process that relies on the coordination of multiple cognitive and linguistic systems, these challenges can significantly hinder academic success if not identified and addressed early.

This presentation examines how the principles of structured reading instruction can inform effective writing instruction, emphasizing the reciprocal relationship between reading and writing. Participants will explore the developmental trajectory of writing, the cognitive-linguistic processes that support it, and the specific challenges faced by students with language-based learning difficulties.

Through the use of case studies, the session will introduce evidence-based informal assessment strategies, including both qualitative and quantitative tools, that can be used to create holistic writing profiles. These profiles will help educators tailor writing instruction to meet each student’s unique needs.

By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to:

1. Identify early signs of writing difficulties in students with language-based learning challenges.
2. Implement a range of informal assessments to evaluate students’ written expression.
3. Use assessment data to design targeted, effective writing instruction and intervention strategies.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:
Pamela Shanahan Bazis, Ph.D., CALT-QI

Pamela Bazis, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Special Education and Co-director of the Schmoker Reading Center at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Dr. Bazis’ interests include the interdependent nature of reading and writing and the connection in efficient, effective instructional practices. Her research focuses on developing interventions and strategies that increase foundational literacy skills for elementary students and the teachers working with those students. Before moving into post-secondary education, she served in several instructional and supervisory roles at the K-12 level, including classroom teacher, dyslexia therapist, and district dyslexia coordinator. Dr. Bazis is an ALTA Certified Academic Language Therapist and Qualified Instructor, providing professional development to elementary teachers on evidence-based reading and writing practices.

----------------------------------

• Event registration is non-refundable upon purchase.
• This event is available for purchase until September 25, 2026.
• Recordings will be made available until October 9, 2026.

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 377 251 9816

Passcode: 12345

Dial by your location

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

+1 408 638 0968 US (San Jose)

+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

Meeting ID: 377 251 9816

ALTA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: ALTA's Meeting Room

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 377 251 9816

Passcode: 12345

Meeting ID: 377 251 9816

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kg6U8EWKV

ALTA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: ALTA's Meeting Room

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 377 251 9816

Passcode: 12345

Meeting ID: 377 251 9816

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kg6U8EWKV

2026 Texas ALTA Summit Presents

Polishing our Practice:
A day with experts in language processing, development, production and evaluation

Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM CT | 6 CEs

Live via Zoom

Texas ALTA’s annual 1-day virtual conference will explore deeper understanding of the various intersections of our practice. We will discuss dysgraphia, evaluations, multilingual literacy, and speech development and correlations with literacy.

Topics will include:

• Intersection of SLD & Literacy

• Multilingual Literacy with a language-based learning difference

• Legislative Update

Can't make the live event? A recording will be emailed to you 2 weeks post-event.

• Event registration is non-refundable upon purchase.
• Recordings will be made available by February 7, 2026