Orton-Gillingham Explained: Why It Works and How to Find a Tutor
OG is the gold standard for dyslexia instruction — but what actually is it? We break down the method, the research behind it, and how to find a qualified tutor.
If you've researched dyslexia for more than five minutes, you've probably come across "Orton-Gillingham." It's recommended by nearly every dyslexia organization — but what actually is it, and why does it work?
The History
Orton-Gillingham (OG) was developed in the 1930s by neurologist Dr. Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham. It was specifically designed for students with dyslexia and is the foundation for virtually all structured literacy programs today.
What Makes It Different
OG is multisensory — it engages visual, auditory, and kinesthetic pathways simultaneously. Students see letters, say sounds, and write at the same time, creating stronger neural connections. It's also systematic and sequential, building skills from the simplest phonemes to complex spelling patterns in a carefully structured order.
Why the Research Supports It
Decades of studies show that structured literacy approaches based on OG produce significantly better outcomes for dyslexic students than whole-language or balanced literacy approaches.
How to Find a Qualified Tutor
Look for tutors certified by IMSE, the Wilson Language Training program, or the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators (AOGPE). The IDA also maintains a practitioner directory at dyslexiaida.org.
Alternatives to Consider
If private OG tutoring isn't accessible, programs like Lexia Core5, Barton Reading and Spelling, and All About Reading use OG principles and can be used at home. See our Resource Directory for details.