Neurologist and psychiatrist Samuel Orton (1879-1948) was a clinician and researcher specializing in remedial reading programs and ways to address speech problems. He was among the first to identify the syndrome of dyslexia and to offer a physiological explanation for its cause.

During his lifetime, Dr. Orton directed many research projects dealing with developmental reading disabilities. It was during one of these projects that he met Anna Gillingham (1878-1963), a teacher and psychologist in the field of language disabilities. Together, they developed procedures and comprehensive materials for early identification and remediation of dyslexic children. Their program is known today as the Orton-Gillingham approach.

What is the Orton-Gillingham Approach to Reading and Spelling? Dyslexics have the potential to be accomplished readers and adequate spellers. The ability to achieve this potential depends on two variables: the instructional approach and the amount of practice. The Orton-Gillingham approach to reading and spelling ensures success by developing multisensory techniques for memory and retrieval. It encompasses the following main characteristics:

• Teaches phonological awareness, (the ability to manipulate speech sounds) through explicit teaching exercises
• Teaches language structure through a systematic phonics program, introducing students to sound/symbol relationships and six syllable patterns
• Uses multisensory pathways for instruction taking into account both the learning strengths and weaknesses of the individual
• Spelling rules and generalizations are presented in a multisensory way designed to enhance an individual's spelling and writing ability
• Because lesson plans progress from simple to complex and are sequential and cumulative, a student's chances for success are increased

The Orton-Gillingham approach has proven successful with students who have struggled in learning to read and spell through traditional classroom methods despite normal intelligence, hearing and vision. It is the program most recommended by experts in the field of dyslexia. Modern day research has continued to confirm Dr. Orton's theories about the physiological differences experienced by dyslexics. Early remediation is most effective, however these methods have been successfully adapted for use with older students and adults. The result is the development of lifelong language skills and the wonderful feeling of success in the world of written language.