The "Science of Reading" is revolutionizing literacy instruction, shifting away from outdated methods towards a more evidence-based approach. Central to this movement is the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach, a highly structured, multisensory method proven effective for teaching struggling readers and those with dyslexia. This post delves into the science behind reading and explores how OG aligns with and enhances its principles.
What is the Science of Reading?
The Science of Reading is a framework grounded in research from cognitive science, linguistics, and neuroscience. It emphasizes the importance of understanding how the brain processes reading and the explicit teaching of foundational skills. These skills include:
- Phonemic Awareness: The ability to hear and manipulate the individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken language. This is crucial for decoding and encoding (reading and spelling).
- Phonics: The understanding of the relationship between letters and sounds. This involves learning letter-sound correspondences and applying them to read and spell words.
- Fluency: The ability to read accurately, quickly, and with expression. Fluency frees up cognitive resources for comprehension.
- Vocabulary: Knowledge of word meanings. A rich vocabulary is essential for comprehension.
- Reading Comprehension: The ability to understand and make meaning from text. This involves integrating all the other skills.
Orton-Gillingham: A Multisensory Approach Aligned with the Science of Reading
Orton-Gillingham is a structured literacy approach that directly addresses each of the foundational skills highlighted by the Science of Reading. Its multisensory nature makes it particularly effective for students who struggle with traditional reading instruction. Key features of OG include:
1. Explicit and Systematic Instruction:
OG follows a carefully sequenced curriculum, explicitly teaching each skill in a logical progression. This systematic approach ensures that students build a solid foundation before moving on to more complex concepts.
2. Multisensory Techniques:
OG utilizes multiple senses – visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile – to reinforce learning. Students might trace letters in sand, say sounds aloud while writing, or use manipulatives to represent syllables. This multisensory approach strengthens memory and understanding.
3. Diagnostic Teaching:
OG teachers continuously assess students' progress and adjust their instruction accordingly. This individualized approach ensures that students receive the support they need to succeed.
4. Emphasis on Phonological Awareness:
OG places a strong emphasis on developing phonemic awareness, a critical skill for successful reading. Students engage in activities that help them identify, isolate, blend, and segment sounds in words.
5. Structured Literacy:
OG incorporates systematic and explicit instruction in phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension, all essential components of the Science of Reading framework.
Why Orton-Gillingham Works: Neuroscience and Cognitive Science
The effectiveness of Orton-Gillingham is supported by neuroscience and cognitive science research. The multisensory techniques used in OG engage different parts of the brain, strengthening neural pathways associated with reading. This approach is particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia, whose brains may process information differently.
Orton-Gillingham and Dyslexia: A Powerful Combination
Many students with dyslexia benefit significantly from OG instruction. Dyslexia is a neurological learning difference that affects reading, but with the right support, individuals with dyslexia can become successful readers. OG's structured, multisensory approach directly addresses the challenges faced by students with dyslexia, helping them develop strong reading skills.
Conclusion: Embracing the Science of Reading with Orton-Gillingham
The Science of Reading and the Orton-Gillingham approach are powerful allies in the pursuit of effective literacy instruction. By aligning with the principles of the Science of Reading, OG offers a structured, multisensory, and research-based solution for teaching struggling readers and those with dyslexia. Its emphasis on explicit instruction, multisensory learning, and diagnostic teaching makes it a valuable tool for educators committed to helping all students achieve reading success. The future of literacy depends on embracing the evidence-based practices that are transforming the way we teach reading.
