If your child struggles with reading, spelling, or writing, you’re not alone. Many children with dyslexia and other learning differences face challenges in traditional classrooms. The Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach is a research-backed, structured, and multisensory method designed to help these students succeed. But what makes OG so effective, and why is it widely recommended for children with dyslexia?
The Science Behind Orton-Gillingham
The OG approach was developed in the 1930s by neuropsychiatrist Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham. Their method is rooted in the science of how the brain processes language, emphasizing a systematic, multisensory approach to teaching reading and writing.
Unlike traditional instruction, which often assumes children will “pick up” reading naturally, OG explicitly teaches phonics, spelling rules, and word structure in a sequential and cumulative way. Students progress step by step, ensuring they fully master each skill before moving on to more complex concepts.
Key Features of the OG Approach
1. Multisensory Learning
OG engages multiple senses—seeing, hearing, touching, and movement—to reinforce learning. This technique helps students with dyslexia make stronger connections in their brains and improves retention. Activities may include:
- Tracing letters in sand while saying the sound aloud.
- Using colored tiles to physically manipulate sounds in words.
- Writing words while verbally spelling them out.
2. Structured and Sequential Learning
Reading is taught in a logical order, starting with the simplest letter-sound relationships and building up to more complex words. Students don’t skip ahead until they’ve mastered the fundamentals, reducing frustration and boosting confidence.
3. Individualized Instruction
Each OG lesson is tailored to a student’s unique learning needs. Since no two children with dyslexia learn the same way, OG adapts to their pace, ensuring they fully grasp concepts before moving forward.
4. Explicit and Direct Teaching
OG doesn’t assume that students will “pick up” reading naturally. Every phonics rule, syllable pattern, and spelling strategy is taught explicitly so that students have a clear understanding of the structure of language.
Who Benefits from OG?
While OG was originally designed for students with dyslexia, it also helps:
✅ Students with ADHD who need structured and engaging learning methods.
✅ Struggling readers who haven’t responded to traditional instruction.
✅ Children with language-based learning disabilities.
Conclusion
The Orton-Gillingham approach is a game-changer for students who struggle with reading and spelling. By using a multisensory, structured, and explicit teaching method, OG provides a solid foundation for literacy success. If your child is struggling with reading, OG could be the key to unlocking their potential.
