Orton-Gillingham Approach Worksheet
This worksheet introduces students to the Orton-Gillingham approach for reading comprehension, focusing on its multisensory and structured principles.
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Orton-Gillingham Approach: Understanding Structured Literacy
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Read the passage below about the Orton-Gillingham Approach. Then, answer the questions that follow to demonstrate your understanding.
The Orton-Gillingham Approach is a highly structured, multisensory method for teaching reading, spelling, and writing. Developed by neurologist Samuel T. Orton and educator Anna Gillingham in the early 20th century, it was originally designed to help individuals with dyslexia, a learning disability that primarily affects reading. Unlike traditional reading instruction that often relies on memorization and visual recognition of words, Orton-Gillingham emphasizes a deep understanding of the connections between letters and sounds (phonics), the structure of words (morphology), and the rules governing language (syntax and semantics).
A key characteristic of the Orton-Gillingham approach is its multisensory nature. Students don't just see letters and words; they also hear them, say them aloud, and often trace them with their fingers or write them. This engagement of multiple senses—visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile—helps to create stronger neural pathways for learning and memory, making it particularly effective for those who struggle with conventional literacy instruction.
Furthermore, the approach is diagnostic and prescriptive, meaning that instruction is tailored to the individual needs of each student. Teachers continuously assess a student's progress and adjust lessons accordingly, building upon mastered skills in a systematic and cumulative way. This individualized and sequential progression ensures that students receive the specific support they need to develop strong literacy skills. While often associated with dyslexia intervention, the principles of Orton-Gillingham have proven beneficial for a wide range of learners seeking a thorough and explicit approach to language arts.
1. What is the primary purpose of the Orton-Gillingham Approach?
To teach advanced literature analysis.
To help individuals with reading and language difficulties, especially dyslexia.
To improve public speaking skills.
To encourage creative writing.
2. Which of the following is NOT a core component emphasized by the Orton-Gillingham Approach?
Phonics
Whole language memorization
Morphology
Syntax and Semantics
3. The Orton-Gillingham Approach is described as because it engages visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile senses.
4. Instruction in the Orton-Gillingham Approach is and , meaning it is tailored to individual student needs and adjusted based on progress.
5. The Orton-Gillingham Approach was developed in the late 20th century.
True
False
6. The Orton-Gillingham Approach is only beneficial for individuals diagnosed with dyslexia.
True
False
7. Explain in your own words what 'multisensory' means in the context of the Orton-Gillingham Approach and why it is important.
8. How does the 'diagnostic and prescriptive' nature of Orton-Gillingham instruction differ from a more traditional, one-size-fits-all teaching method?
The Orton-Gillingham approach aims to create stronger neural pathways. Below is an illustration of the human brain.
