Orton-Gillingham (OG) Philosophy Explained

The Orton-Gillingham approach is a pioneering, structured method designed to help those who struggle with reading, particularly individuals with dyslexia. Developed in the 1930s by Dr. Samuel T. Orton and educator Anna Gillingham, the approach embodies these core principles:

• Multisensory Instruction: Lessons engage multiple senses simultaneously—students see, hear, touch, and move while learning. This can include listening to sounds, saying the sounds, and writing the letters, integrating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning pathways.
• Structured and Sequential: Skills are broken down into small, manageable parts and taught in a logical order. Students master foundational concepts before moving on to more complex skills.
• Explicit and Direct: The teacher provides clear, direct instruction, ensuring that the logic behind reading and spelling is made understandable through step-by-step guidance.
• Diagnostic and Prescriptive: Instruction is continuously adjusted based on each student’s performance, allowing for individualized pacing and targeted remediation.
• Emotionally Supportive Environment: The approach builds confidence and resilience, supporting learners in a positive, encouraging atmosphere.

This philosophy enables students with dyslexia and other reading disabilities to acquire literacy skills in ways that match how they learn best. It’s not just a method or a program—it’s a tailored, scientific approach that promotes mastery through understanding, practice, and ongoing assessment.

Our Tutors: Trained/Certified using Orton-Gillingham 

At Davidson Center, our tutors are not only teachers but also receive training in the Orton-Gillingham approach. This dual expertise equips them to deliver evidence-based instruction using the most effective strategies for struggling readers. Each tutor has substantial experience working with neurodiverse students, including those diagnosed with dyslexia.