In the 1930’s neurologist Dr. Samuel T. Orton and educator, psychologist Anna Gillingham developed the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading instruction for students with Dyslexia. This theory combines multisensory techniques along with the structure of the English language. Those items taught include: phonemes and morphemes, such as prefixes, suffixes, and roots. Common spelling rules are introduced as well. Multi-sensory education incorporates the three learning pathways, which are: auditory, kinaesthetic, and visual. This approach is beneficial not only for students with dyslexia, but for all learners. It can be implemented in a large group setting as well as with individuals, small groups and at-risk populations. The methodology allows for implementation of Response to Intervention (RTI) at all levels while allowing for differentiation of instruction.
The Early Childhood and Primary teachers at Saint Philip Preparatory School have been specially trained and certified in the Orton-Gillingham approach and have great success with the program.