The Orton-Gillingham approach is best described as

• A. A structured, multisensory method designed to teach reading and writing to individuals with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences
• B. A phonics-only drill program
• C. A traditional grammar-based approach
• D. A test-based assessment

Answer: (A)

Orton-Gillingham is a structured, multisensory, explicit approach to teaching reading, writing, and spelling, designed especially for students with dyslexia and other language-based differences. Lessons are carefully sequenced and teacher-led, with clear steps that move from recognizing sounds to blending and segmenting, then to applying those skills in reading and writing. It uses visual, auditory, and kinesthetic cues to reinforce how letters and sounds connect, and it continually checks understanding to tailor instruction to each learner’s pace.

This method isn’t just phonics drill. It integrates phonemic awareness and phonics with morphology, orthography, and syntax, helping students understand how word parts—such as roots, prefixes, and suffixes—work together. It also emphasizes decoding and encoding with explicit strategies, guided practice, and decodable texts to build fluency and comprehension. It isn’t a test-based assessment; rather, assessment and ongoing observation guide the instruction so teaching stays responsive to the learner’s progress.