Instructional Method
Highly structured materials, designed for para-professional use, are used. The materials are based on the method of instruction developed by Samuel T. Orton and Anna Gillingham in the 1940’s. All successful methods for working with dyslexics have been derived from their initial work. This is a complete language program teaching sounds, word decoding, vocabulary, oral expression, letter formation, spelling, fluency, comprehension, and expanding memory and the ability to focus and attend.
By introducing the letters simultaneously through hearing, seeing, and feeling, the student’s weaknesses are lessened by integrating all of his/her learning pathways. This multisensory approach helps to ensure automatic memory which is so difficult for persons with dyslexia. Progress is made by going from the simple to the more complex tasks, building in much reinforcement and proceeding as fast as possible, but as slowly as necessary for mastery. New concepts are practiced until they become automatic responses. Careful pacing, structured procedures, and a sequential presentation combine reading, writing, and spelling. According to The International Dyslexia Association, “A multisensory approach can be valuable to many but to the dyslexic it is often essential.”
Teaching is individualized since no two persons are alike. The learning pace is as fast as one can, but as slow as one must. It is emotionally sound, recognizing that many students have been hurt by possibly years of trying and failing.