  The molecular algebraic model based on three and four alpha clusters is used
to describe the inelastic scattering of alpha particles populating low-lying
states in $^{12}$C and $^{16}$O. Optical potentials and inelastic formfactors
are obtained by folding densities and transition densities obtained within the
molecular model. One-step and multi-step processes can be included in the
reaction mechanism calculation. In spite of the simplicity of the approach the
molecular model with rotations and vibrations provides a reliable description
of reactions where $\alpha$-cluster degrees of freedom are involved and good
results are obtained for the excitation of several low-lying states. Within the
same model we briefly discuss the expected selection rules for the
$\alpha$-transfer reactions from $^{12}$C and $^{16}$O.
