The Orton-Gillingham approach is a structured, cumulative, and multi-sensory method designed to teach the English language — and mathematics — in a way that matches how the brain learns best. It is especially powerful for individuals with dyslexia, dyscalculia, or other language-based and number-based learning differences.
For Language: Each lesson systematically builds understanding through phonemic awareness, encoding (spelling), decoding (reading), vocabulary, sentence development, sensory integration, and memory training. Students engage through touch, movement, sight, and sound.
For Mathematics: The same philosophy applies to numbers — students use visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile methods to discover and internalize arithmetic facts and mathematical concepts. Rather than memorizing disconnected facts, learners uncover patterns and relationships for deep conceptual understanding.
While originally created for dyslexic and dyscalculic learners, this approach benefits all learners by strengthening foundational skills, improving processing, and fostering confidence through clear, consistent, and engaging instruction. It is not age-specific, making it a powerful foundation for anyone.