Orton-Gillingham Approach

What Is The Orton-Gillingham Approach?

If you’re scratching your head over what OG could stand for, ONE Intervention is here to help! The Orton-Gillingham (OG) Approach is a structured, multisensory method designed to teach literacy skills effectively.

Originally developed for individuals with dyslexia. OG has evolved into a flexible approach that benefits a wide range of learners struggling with language processing and literacy development.

So, how does it work? Let’s break it down!

What Are The 4 Key Features of The Orton-Gillingham Approach?

Structured and Explicit

The Approach emphasises direct and explicit instruction. Learners progress in a step-by-step manner – starting with basic concepts, before moving on to more complex language rules.

Along the way, they review the information learnt through assessments and other checkpoints. This repeated exposure to concepts reinforces learning and helps the students process information.

Multi-Sensory Learning

Through alternative methods of learning (as compared to rote memorisation), the Orton-Gillingham engages learners. This could be through visual, kinesthetic and auditory cues.

Simply put, students learn through sight, movement and hearing rather than the traditional read-and-write method taught in classrooms. This caters to diverse learning styles and increases memory retention.

Individualised Instruction

The Approach allows for flexibility and can be adapted to a child’s specific learning goals and pace. For example, the Approach can be done either in a group or individually.

Therapists assess a child’s strengths and challenges faced, then tailor the Approach accordingly. This design ensures that every child receives deliberate and targeted care.

Cumulative Review

Through the step-by-step progression of the Approach, the child establishes a solid foundation in language. Every class draws on the lessons taught previously through regular review and practice.

This builds up the child’s confidence in communication and slowly guides them towards higher literacy skills.

What Are The Benefits Of The Orton-Gillingham Approach?

Improved Literacy Skills

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is designed to strengthen the child’s skill in reading and writing. This includes reading fluency, spelling accuracy and overall language comprehension.

Hence, it’s a great way to help children who struggle with traditional learning methods!

Increased Confidence

Finding your voice is a huge part of becoming more confident in yourself. The Orton-Gillingham Approach helps with that.

As kids see tangible improvements in their language and communication skills, they’re more likely to benefit from higher self-esteem. This in turn increases their motivation to learn.

Reduced Frustration

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is structured to each learner. It can be adjusted to suit their own learning goals and level, so students are less likely to struggle with lessons.

In fact, lessons are designed specifically to set the child up for success. They progress at the pace that the learner is confident with, thus reducing stress and frustration.

Stronger Foundation

Through laying a strong literary foundation, the Orton-Gillingham paves the way for the child’s future academic success.

Learners are able to communicate clearly and effectively on paper. This is doubtlessly a useful skill across every subject at every level of study.

Too Long, Didn’t Read? Here’s The Summary!

Basically, the Orton-Gillingham Approach is a valuable tool for educators and therapists to teach their students literary skills. The Approach ultimately improves the learner’s reading and writing fluency.

This is done through structured, multi-sensory lessons which empower the student to learn and succeed.

Want more? Don’t worry, we’ve got you!

🔗 The Orton-Gillingham Approach by Orton Gillingham.com for a brief overview of the OG Approach and how it relates to the 5 Pillars of Literacy

🔗 What is Orton-Gillingham (OG) Approach | Best Educational Therapist – Psych Connect for a fresh perspective on the OG Approach, and

🔗 Dyslexia And Comorbidities: Understanding The Whole Child for extra reading on dyslexia, which the OG Approach can absolutely help with.

And for even more information about the other learning strategies that ONE uses, click here now!