What is Orton-Gillingham?

It is a common misconception that the term “Orton-Gillingham” refers to one specific reading curriculum. Orton-Gillingham is an approach that provides a framework for effective reading instruction.

We are pleased to confirm that the Kendore Learning Curriculum is firmly grounded in the Orton-Gillingham approach. 

History of the Orton-Gillingham Approach

The Orton-Gillingham approach was developed in the early to mid 1900’s by brain researcher Samuel Torrey Orton and educator Anna Gillingham.  Orton pioneered learning disability research and studied the brains of people who struggled to read.  He introduced the concept of multisensory instruction.  Gillingham developed a framework for teaching reading based upon an understanding of sounds, word patterns, spelling rules and syllable types.  Her instruction incorporated Orton’s multisensory approach.

Orton-Gillingham Criteria

To follow the Orton-Gillingham approach, reading instruction must meet specific criteria:

  • phonics based,
  • multisensory (visual, auditory tactile and kinesthetic),
  • structured,
  • sequential,
  • cumulative,
  • cognitive,
  • flexible.

Kendore Learning is Orton-Gillingham

The Kendore Learning curriculum meticulously follows the Orton-Gillingham approach: students learn in a stepwise format beginning with sounds.  The curriculum is structured in a way that is easy to understand and that provides engaging exercises and a compelling overarching story that students remember.

When a parent requests Orton-Gillingham reading and spelling instruction, Kendore Learning teachers can confidently reply:

“We’ve got you covered!”