What Is the Orton-Gillingham Method? A Proven Approach for Dyslexia
When a child struggles to read, especially when bright and eager to learn, it can be both puzzling and frustrating for parents and educators. For many of these students, the challenge stems from dyslexia—a language-based learning difference that affects reading, spelling, and writing. Fortunately, there is a time-tested and research-informed approach designed specifically to help: the Orton-Gillingham method.
What Is the Orton-Gillingham Approach?
The Orton-Gillingham (OG) method is a structured, multisensory, and individualized approach to teaching reading, writing, and spelling. It was developed in the 1930s by neuropsychiatrist Dr. Samuel Orton and educator/psychologist Anna Gillingham. Together, they created a method to address the specific language-processing difficulties faced by individuals with dyslexia.
Unlike traditional reading instruction, which often assumes that children naturally absorb patterns in print, Orton-Gillingham makes no such assumption. Instead, it explicitly teaches the connections between sounds and letters—what educators call phonemic awareness and phonics—and builds a strong foundation for fluent reading.
Why Is It Effective for Dyslexia?
The OG approach is especially effective for students with dyslexia because of its key features:
1. Multisensory Instruction
Students learn through visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile pathways—simultaneously. For example, they might see the letter “b,” say its sound /b/, and write it in sand or on a textured surface. Engaging multiple senses helps reinforce memory and learning.
2. Structured and Sequential
Lessons follow a carefully planned sequence, beginning with the simplest concepts and gradually moving to more complex ones. Students don’t just memorize; they master each step before moving on, which is essential for building confidence and competence.
3. Cumulative
Every new concept builds on previously learned material. Students constantly review and apply past skills, ensuring long-term retention and understanding.
4. Diagnostic and Prescriptive
OG is not a one-size-fits-all program. Teachers assess a student’s needs in real time and tailor instruction accordingly. If a student is struggling with a particular concept, the teacher adjusts pacing, reviews, and practice until mastery is achieved.
5. Explicit and Direct
Nothing is assumed. Every rule, pattern, and concept is taught clearly and directly. This is especially helpful for dyslexic students, who often do not intuitively grasp language rules the way their peers might.
Beyond Reading
While the OG approach is best known for helping with reading and spelling, its benefits extend to writing and even comprehension. As students gain control over the building blocks of language, they become more confident and independent learners.
Not Just for Young Learners
Although commonly used with elementary-age students, Orton-Gillingham can be effective for learners of all ages—from young children to adults. It’s never too late to build a stronger foundation in literacy.
A Trusted Approach
Today, the Orton-Gillingham method is widely recognized as the gold standard in dyslexia intervention. It forms the basis for many well-known reading programs, including Wilson Reading System®, Barton Reading and Spelling System®, and others that incorporate OG principles.
Final Thoughts
Dyslexia presents real challenges, but with the right instruction, students can learn to read, spell, and write with confidence. The Orton-Gillingham method offers a path forward—one that respects the learner’s needs, builds on their strengths, and opens doors to literacy success.
