The Orton-Gillingham Approach

THE ORTON-GILLINGHAM APPROACH 

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is based on the teaching philosophy of Samuel Orton and  Anna Gillingham. In the 1920's, Dr. Orton combined neuroscientific information and  principles of language processing remediation. Ms. Gillingham was a gifted educator and linguist with a superb mastery of language and was an early advocate of multisensory  teaching. Together they developed the Orton-Gillingham Approach which remains the  optimal approach for teaching students with learning differences. 

Orton-Gillingham principles utilized throughout the curriculum at The Fletcher School: 

Language Based: The fundamental aspects of language are taught explicitly  to facilitate reading and writing. 

Individualized: Academic needs are met by developing strategies for each  student's learning profile. 

Multisensory: Teaching employs all learning pathways in the brain (visual,  auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic). Instruction via the multisensory triangle  enhances student learning and recall. 

Direct, Structured, and Sequential Instruction: New materials are introduced  systematically with lessons moving from the simple to complex in a gradual, orderly  fashion. 

 Cognitive: Students gain an understanding of their learning profile with the ability  to select and apply strategies that work for them. 

Success Oriented: Success and confidence grow as students use learning strategies  to progressively develop their strengths and skills. Learning becomes a rewarding  and joyful experience.