The Dyslexia Remedy: Why Orton Gillingham Instruction Works

JimDyslexia

The Orton-Gillingham (OG) methodology is effective for students with dyslexia because it was designed by Drs. Sam Orton and Anna Gillingham who were expert  researchers and educators. They developed an instructional reading method to help even the most challenged individual (who is not intellectually disabled or severely autistic) learn to read. People with dyslexia have average range IQ scores but difficulties with phonological processing, reading fluency, spelling, and decoding. OG is specifically designed to target these challenges through a structured, multisensory approach. The Barton Reading and Spelling System is an excellent evidenced based OG based reading program. Click on the link and watch “What is it?” for an easy to understand video. In addition to my school neuropsychology diplomate, I am also a Barton Certified Dyslexia Testing Specialist.

Here are 7 key reasons why OG instruction works:

  1. Multisensory Instruction

  • What it means: OG instruction engages multiple senses simultaneously—visual (seeing), auditory (hearing), and kinesthetic-tactile (touching/moving).
  • Why it helps dyslexic students: It strengthens neural pathways by reinforcing learning through different channels, helping students connect sounds to letters more effectively.

  1. Explicit and Systematic Phonics Instruction

  • What it means: Teachers teach the language rules clearly and in a logical, step-by-step sequence that allows for ample practice of what your child learns in that lesson.
  • Why it helps dyslexic students: Dyslexic learners benefit from not having to infer rules—they need to be taught directly and explicitly how language works (e.g., syllable types, spelling patterns). It takes the guess work out of learning.

  1. Structured and Sequential Instruction

  • What it means: Concepts are taught in a deliberate order, building from simple to more complex. Students learn the six most common syllable types.
  • Why it helps dyslexic students: They often need more repetition and a clear roadmap for understanding the building blocks of language.

  1. Cumulative and Repetitive Instruction

  • What it means: Each lesson builds on previous material, and key concepts are reviewed frequently until they are mastered.
  • Why it helps dyslexic students: Retention and mastery require constant reinforcement, especially when memory for language-based tasks is weak.

  1. Diagnostic and Prescriptive Instruction

  • What it means: Instruction is tailored based on ongoing assessment and observation of student needs. The teacher diagnoses the problem and prescribes the OG treatment.
  • Why it helps dyslexic students: One-size-fits-all approaches don’t work. OG allows teachers to adapt pace and content based on student progress.

  1. Language-Based Instruction

  • What it means: Focuses deeply on the structure of English—phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics.
  • Why it helps dyslexic students: It demystifies language and gives students tools to decode and spell words logically, rather than relying on memorization.

  1. Builds Self-Esteem

  • What it means: Encourages a positive, success-based learning environment.
  • Why it helps dyslexic students: Many struggle with confidence due to past academic failures. OG helps rebuild self-esteem through achievable, well-supported steps.

The Orton-Gillingham approach is effective for students with dyslexia because it is individualized, multisensory, structured, and grounded in the science of how the brain learns to read. It helps students make meaningful connections and develop lasting reading and spelling skills that last a lifetime.

Contact me if you would like to discuss your dyslexia concerns and your child’s reading performance. (561) 625 4125