The Role of Language in Reading: Word Meaning to Inference - A. Elleman (2026 Spotlight Series #1)

Slide Deck Available: https://ga.dyslexiaida.org/jan14-2026... The Spotlight on Structured Literacy series is an annual, free webinar series offered by IDA Georgia and The Reading League Georgia. The series features experts in the field, and the one-hour webinars include live Q&A and the option to earn a Certificate of Attendance. Learn about the 2026 Series: https://ga.dyslexiaida.org/2026-spotl... In this first webinar in the IDA-GA/TRL-GA 2026 Spotlight on Structured Literacy series, Dr. Amy Elleman will explore how language processes such as vocabulary, syntax, and inference-making work together to support listening and reading comprehension. We will review key research in comprehension and discuss instructional practices that help students connect ideas, fill in gaps, and construct meaning across contexts. Participants will gain research-based insights and classroom-ready strategies for fostering language development and strengthening comprehension skills across grade levels. Amy M. Elleman, Ph.D., is a Professor of Literacy Studies and Director of the Literacy Studies Ph.D. Program at Middle Tennessee State University. She earned her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Maryland in Heidelberg, Germany, and her Ph.D. in Special Education from Vanderbilt University. Her research focuses on key factors in reading comprehension including vocabulary, inference generation, and knowledge acquisition. She is an expert in meta-analysis and evaluating reading comprehension interventions. As a former teacher and administrator, she is dedicated to translating literacy research into practical tools for educators.