The Orton-Gillingham Approach: Gold Standard for Dyslexia Intervention
Orton-Gillingham (OG) teachers are the gold standard of expert reading instruction, particularly for dyslexic and other language-based learning disabled students. The method, initially designed in the 1930s by neuropsychiatrist Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham, is the most researched and effective way to teach reading to students with challenges in traditional phonics instruction.
Multisensory Learning Foundation
The hallmark of Orton-Gillingham teachers is their expertise in multisensory instruction. In contrast to most approaches to reading that pursue a strictly visual strategy, OG teachers employ multiple channels simultaneously—visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile. Students might do letter writing in sand as they articulate the sound, build words using colored tiles, or manipulate their hands while mastering phonetic patterns. Multisensory teaching develops more efficient neural routes and overcomes dyslexic brains' deficits.
Systematic and Sequential Approach
OG tutors instruct with a carefully organized, step-by-step course of study that builds skills in small increments. Tutors never assume students have been thoroughly practiced in prerequisite skills and instead teach with methodicalness, presenting concepts in simple-to-complex order. Each lesson goes in a habitual sequence, from review of the previously learned to introduction of new so grounding is well established. Systematic teaching prevents gaps which are typical of poor readers.
Individualized Diagnostic Teaching
Orton-Gillingham tutors are trained to be diagnostic, constantly measuring and adapting instruction based on student response. Special error patterns are known to them and lessons are constructed accordingly. If a pupil still struggles with certain letter combinations, the tutor sets up particular practice exercises for them. Individualized in this way, it prevents any pupil from slipping through the net and makes instruction effective according to their individual learning profile.
Thorough Understanding of Language Structure
OG tutors possess in-depth knowledge of English language structure, including phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. They know why English spelling rules are the way they are and can give the explanation behind seemingly irregular words. Such an understanding helps them teach students the "why" behind reading rules, making language more predictable and manageable for dyslexic minds.
Explicit and Direct Instruction
Rather than counting on students to acquire reading habits by themselves, OG tutors provide explicit, direct instruction. They say each concept out loud, model the procedures, and provide guided practice before expecting independent use. Directness is needed for those students whose minds will not pick up language patterns by mere exposure.
Emotional Support and Confidence Building
Orton Gillingham Tutors Chicago recognize the affective consequences of reading challenges. They are trained to be sensitive to the fear, anger, and sense of low self-esteem that commonly accompany dyslexia. Their warm, supportive attitude helps students recover confidence in themselves as learners while building genuine reading competence.
Research-Based Effectiveness
Decades of research substantiate the efficacy of Orton-Gillingham instruction for dyslexic learners. Research consistently shows significant increases in accuracy, fluency, and reading comprehension when students receive OG instruction from well-trained tutors. This body of evidence assures parents they are investing in proven methodology.
Long-Term Skill Development
OG teachers don't just teach to read; they teach children how to be independent learners. They instruct children in decoding strategies, spelling patterns, and self-correction techniques applicable to new words for a lifetime. This metacognitive process results in long-term transformation, not short-term gain.
Certification and Training Standards
Trained Orton-Gillingham tutors complete intensive training and certification, both theoretically and practically grounded. This professional level allows parents to be assured they are collaborating with tutors who fully comprehend the method and the client group they are working with.
Hiring an Orton-Gillingham tutor is an investment in specialist knowledge that has the power to change your child's attitude toward reading and learning.