Orton–Gillingham method

Dyslexia, a learning disorder that affects reading, writing and spelling, has led to the creation and evolution of various pedagogical methods designed to support those who face this challenge. One of these prominent methods is the Orton-Gillingham (OG) Method, a multisensory approach developed to address the specific difficulties of dyslexia. In this session, we will explore the Orton-Gillingham Method in depth, examining its foundations, practical applications, and the impact it has had on educational support for people with dyslexia.

Origins and Foundations of the Orton-Gillingham Method

• Historical Development: The Orton-Gillingham Method originates in the work of neurologist and psychiatrist Samuel T. Orton and educator Anna Gillingham in the 1920s. Orton, while investigating reading difficulties, identified specific patterns in the processing of words by individuals with dyslexia.

• Multisensory Approach: The method is based on a multisensory approach that recognizes the importance of involving various senses in the teaching and learning process. It seeks to integrate sight, hearing and touch to strengthen the connection between letters, sounds and meanings.

Key Principles of the Orton-Gillingham Method

• Structured Sequence: A distinctive feature of OG is its structured and systematic sequence. The program follows a specific order in the presentation of letters, phonemes and grammatical rules, ensuring a logical and cumulative progression. Explicit Instruction: Instruction is explicit and direct, breaking down language skills into more manageable components. Each rule or concept is taught clearly and reinforced through repeated practice.

• Individual Adaptability: The method recognizes diversity in learning and adapts to individual needs. Instructors adjust their approach according to the response and progress of each student, providing personalized support.

Key Components of the Orton-Gillingham Method

• Phonological Awareness: OG prioritizes the development of phonological awareness, which involves the ability to recognize and manipulate the sounds in words. Activities such as segmenting and blending phonemes are fundamental to this process.

• Language Sound System: Emphasis is placed on explicitly teaching the language sound system. Students learn the correspondence between letters and phonemes, understanding the rules that govern pronunciation and writing.

• Visual Memory and Visualization: Visual memory and visualization are important components. Students practice identifying and visually retaining words, strengthening the connection between the form of words and their meanings.

Multisensory Strategies of the Orton-Gillingham Method

• Use of Tactile Materials: Tactile materials, such as cardboard letters and words, allow students to manipulate and feel the shapes of the letters. This tactile approach reinforces the connection between sight and touch, facilitating the retention of information.

• Auditory Activities: Incorporating auditory activities, such as practicing phonemes and listening to words, improves auditory discrimination and strengthens the connection between sounds and letters.

• Body Movements: Body movements can be used to reinforce concepts. For example, students can perform specific movements for each syllable in a word, thus involving muscle memory in the learning process.

Implementation of the Orton-Gillingham Method in Education

• Use in School Settings and Clinics: The Orton-Gillingham Method has been adopted in school settings and specialized clinics to support students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties. Instructors trained in OG offer individual or small group sessions.

• Application at Different Ages: Although initially designed for children, the method has proven effective in people of all ages, from childhood to adulthood. The adaptability of OG allows for its application at various stages of development.

Training Instructors in the Orton-Gillingham Method

• Specialized Certification: Successful implementation of OG requires trained and certified instructors in