is orton gillingham phonics based

2 min read 01-09-2024

The Orton-Gillingham approach is a widely recognized method for teaching reading and spelling to individuals, particularly those with dyslexia. One of the most frequently asked questions regarding this approach is whether it is phonics-based.

Understanding Orton-Gillingham

What is Orton-Gillingham?

The Orton-Gillingham approach was developed by Dr. Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham in the early 20th century. It is a structured, multisensory method that emphasizes the relationships between letters and sounds. The approach is tailored to meet the needs of each learner, particularly focusing on those who struggle with traditional reading instruction.

Key Features of Orton-Gillingham

Multisensory Learning: Incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to engage learners effectively.
Structured and Sequential: The curriculum is designed in a way that builds upon previously learned skills, allowing for gradual mastery of reading and spelling.
Individualized Instruction: Each student’s unique learning needs are considered, making it suitable for various types of learners.

Is Orton-Gillingham Phonics Based?

The Role of Phonics in Orton-Gillingham

Yes, the Orton-Gillingham approach is phonics-based. It fundamentally relies on phonics principles to help students understand the connections between sounds (phonemes) and letters (graphemes). Here are some aspects that highlight the phonics foundation:

Phonemic Awareness: The approach emphasizes the importance of phonemic awareness, which is the ability to hear, identify, and manipulate sounds in spoken words.
Explicit Instruction: Orton-Gillingham provides explicit instruction in phonics, teaching students how to decode words systematically.
Word Structure: Students learn about syllables, prefixes, and suffixes, which all play a vital role in understanding word structure through a phonics lens.

Phonics and Beyond

While phonics is a significant component of the Orton-Gillingham approach, it is not the only focus. The method also incorporates:

Vocabulary Development: Emphasizing the understanding of word meanings and usage.
Reading Comprehension: Teaching strategies to help students comprehend and interpret what they read.
Spelling Instruction: Providing a solid foundation in spelling rules and patterns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Orton-Gillingham approach is indeed phonics-based, incorporating explicit phonics instruction as a core element of its teaching methodology. However, it also extends beyond phonics to include various aspects of reading and language arts, making it a comprehensive method for teaching individuals with dyslexia and other learning challenges. By understanding the phonetic foundations, students can develop the skills needed for successful reading and writing.