An Overview of the Orton-Gillingham Approach to Reading Instruction

The Orton-Gillingham approach has been around since the 1930s. It was designed by Samuel T. Orton, neurologist and pathologist, and Anna Gillingham, an educator and psychologist. They developed an explicit, incremental, and diagnostic way to teach reading instruction for students with dyslexia.  Many programs use this approach.  CLICK HERE to see a list.

Although the programs available on the market today offer a well-sequenced, comprehensive, cookie-cutter methodology of teaching reading and spelling, I find that the process can be long and arduous for some students.  Many learners dislike completing workbooks and reading lengthy lists of words. As a result, I suggest finding a professional who knows the Orton-Gillingham approach well and has the confidence and mastery to tailor individualized lessons for each student.  In addition, I recommend using tools that strengthen the core cognitive skills required to read and spell, as well as implementing games and fun activities that make the learning process motivating and fun.  If you would like to see some of these products, Click Here.

If you have any thoughts or anecdotes about the Orton-Gillingham Approach, please share them below this post.