What is it?
Roman Word Bubbling is a visual access strategy used to support learners with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). It involves placing a simple, high-contrast outline or “bubble” around a single word or short phrase so it stands out from the surrounding visual field. By isolating one meaningful word at a time, this strategy helps reduce visual clutter and supports learners in locating and attending to print.
How to use it?
Roman Word Bubbling begins by selecting a meaningful or functional word, such as go, more, or help, and outlining it with a bold, high-contrast shape on a simple background. The word is presented on its own at first, paired with spoken language and connected to a meaningful context or action. The Roman Word Bubbling website can be used to easily create these bold outlines as you type words, making it quick to generate materials for instruction. This strategy can be used across activities, including shared reading, AAC use, and daily routines. Supports can be adjusted as needed, such as increasing size, contrast, or gradually adding more words.
Why use it?
Roman Word Bubbling reduces visual complexity and helps direct attention to what is most important. For learners with CVI, this can make print more accessible and support connections between written words, spoken language, and meaning. It aligns with CVI- informed practices and is easy to implement using everyday materials, making it a flexible strategy for supporting communication and early literacy in inclusive settings.
Inclusive Classroom Example
In an inclusive classroom, a teacher might highlight the word turn during a group game, supporting all students in understanding the routine while providing clearer visual access for a learner with CVI.
