Start slow by working with the alphabet and let the students run through the letters both visually and orally. Have the class practice each letter aloud as a group, and then let those who are ready respond individually. Outline the separate groups of vowels and consonants.
Incorporate regular interaction and small groups if the students seem responsive. Let them get to know each other and assist their peers so that they don't resist the learning process, and it feels more organic.
Have the students use notebooks to work on the written aspect of the alphabet at home and practice on their own. Use flash cards with visual signals so that students can associate the letters with the words they appear in and the objects they signify. For example: the letter "A" card might have something simple like the word "apple" or "ant" spelled out with a visual cue of the object.
Teach the class short, everyday words by writing them on the board and having the class pronounce each one and record it in their notebook. Assign small groups the task of creating a sentence together with basic words like the, a, and, I, and we. Include a few simple verbs like am, are, run, see.
Read aloud to the class from beginner books with short, simple sentences. Provide individual copies of one book and have them copy the text into their notebook. Reconvene the small groups and have them discuss what they've learned thus far.
Have the class play a letter-based game, using the small groups as teams. Quiz them on letters and short words, and let the students write answers on small whiteboards or on a chalkboard in front of the class.
Assign students to create a short sentence in their notebook. Have them read their sentences aloud.
Give the students a written test on the alphabet and short words. Continue with games, basic reading and alphabet lessons to strengthen what they've learned.