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what does orton gillingham teach

what does orton gillingham teach

2 min read 01-09-2024
what does orton gillingham teach

The Orton-Gillingham approach is a renowned educational method designed to help individuals, particularly those with dyslexia, learn to read and write. This structured, multi-sensory approach is based on the principles of phonics and is tailored to meet the needs of each learner. Below, we explore the key components and teachings of the Orton-Gillingham approach.

Key Components of Orton-Gillingham

1. Structured Language Approach

The Orton-Gillingham method emphasizes a structured, sequential way of teaching reading and writing. This includes:

  • Phonemic Awareness: Understanding the sounds in words and how they connect to letters.
  • Phonics: Teaching the relationships between letters and sounds in a systematic way.
  • Vocabulary Development: Expanding a student’s vocabulary through direct instruction and context.
  • Fluency Practice: Improving speed and accuracy in reading to enhance comprehension.
  • Comprehension Strategies: Teaching students how to understand and interpret texts.

2. Multi-Sensory Techniques

One of the hallmark features of the Orton-Gillingham approach is its use of multi-sensory techniques. This means that the teaching method engages multiple senses, which can enhance learning and retention. Techniques include:

  • Visual Learning: Using charts, diagrams, and written letters to support learning.
  • Auditory Learning: Incorporating sounds and verbal instructions to aid understanding.
  • Kinesthetic Learning: Utilizing physical activities, such as tracing letters in sand or using letter tiles, to solidify concepts.

3. Individualized Instruction

Every learner is unique, and the Orton-Gillingham approach recognizes this by providing individualized instruction. This involves:

  • Assessment of Skills: Identifying a student’s strengths and weaknesses.
  • Personalized Lesson Plans: Tailoring lessons to meet the specific needs of each student.
  • Pacing Flexibility: Allowing students to progress at their own pace, ensuring mastery before moving on.

Benefits of the Orton-Gillingham Approach

The Orton-Gillingham approach offers several benefits, particularly for students with dyslexia or other learning challenges:

  • Improved Reading Skills: Many students see significant improvements in their ability to decode and comprehend text.
  • Increased Confidence: As students gain skills, their self-esteem and confidence in reading and writing grow.
  • Enhanced Learning Strategies: The multi-sensory techniques foster diverse learning strategies that can be applied across subjects.

Conclusion

The Orton-Gillingham approach is a powerful tool for teaching reading and writing, particularly for students with learning difficulties. By utilizing structured language instruction, multi-sensory techniques, and individualized plans, this method equips learners with the skills they need to succeed academically. Whether you’re an educator or a parent, understanding the fundamentals of Orton-Gillingham can make a significant difference in a child’s literacy journey.

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