The Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach is a structured, multi-sensory method designed to help struggling readers by addressing reading, spelling, and writing challenges in a personalized way. Developed in the 1930s by neurologist Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham, this method has become a cornerstone in the field of literacy instruction for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. By integrating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning strategies, OG ensures that students experience success in mastering reading fundamentals.

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The Origins of Orton-Gillingham

Samuel Orton, a pioneering neurologist, first laid the foundation for understanding the neurological underpinnings of reading difficulties. He was one of the first to recognize that children with reading struggles often have neurological patterns that require specialized teaching methods. Anna Gillingham, a skilled educator, took Orton's research and transformed it into a systematic, structured curriculum designed to teach reading in a logical and sequential manner. This combination of neuroscience and practical teaching techniques has made a tremendous impact on the lives of struggling readers worldwide.

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The Orton-Gillingham Method in Action

 

Orton-Gillingham is particularly effective because it is:

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• Multi-Sensory: Engages multiple senses simultaneously to reinforce learning (e.g., saying, writing, and hearing the word simultaneously).

• Structured and Sequential: Lessons are taught in a logical progression, beginning with the simplest concepts and gradually moving to more complex skills.

• Individualized: Tailored to meet each student’s specific needs, making it an excellent method for students with dyslexia and other reading challenges.

 

For struggling readers, this approach provides a highly supportive environment that builds their confidence and skills, moving from basic phonological awareness to more advanced reading and comprehension abilities.

 

Ravinia Reading Center and Orton-Gillingham

 

At Ravinia Reading Center's Founder, Dr. Shapiro had the privilege of studying OG under renowned practitioners, including Jean Osman and the late Paula Dozier Rome, who was directly connected to Samuel Orton himself.

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In 1999, Dr. Shapiro achieved the highest certification from the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators, becoming the only Orton-Gillingham Fellow in Illinois at the time, and one of fewer than 150 globally. Her expertise in this method ensures that every student at Ravinia benefits from the most effective, evidence-based practices in reading intervention.

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Why Orton-Gillingham Works

Recent studies continue to support the effectiveness of multi-sensory, structured approaches like OG for students with dyslexia and reading difficulties. Research published by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) emphasizes that systematic, explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, and fluency, such as that provided by OG, is critical for improving literacy skills in struggling readers (IDA, 2023). Additionally, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) highlights that multi-sensory teaching methods align with how children with dyslexia process information, making approaches like OG invaluable for these learners (NICHD, 2023).

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The Orton-Gillingham approach is a tried-and-true method that has changed the trajectory for countless students facing reading challenges. At Ravinia Reading Center, we leverage this method to offer the highest quality of instruction, empowering students to become confident, capable readers. Whether your child is just starting out or has struggled with reading for years, OG can provide the tools they need for success.

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For more information on the Orton-Gillingham approach and its effectiveness, visit resources like the International Dyslexia Association or Understood.org.