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Orton-Gillingham, Structured Literacy, and Dyslexia: How They Work Together

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Orton-Gillingham, Structured Literacy, and Dyslexia: How They Work Together

Dyslexia Awareness, For Parents, For Teachers
Orton-Gillingham, Structured Literacy, and Dyslexia: How They Work Together

What Is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a language-based learning difference that affects a person’s ability to read, spell, write, and sometimes speak. It is neurological in origin, and not related to intelligence or effort. Children with dyslexia typically struggle with phonological processing, making it hard to decode words and learn to read fluently.

Early identification and appropriate intervention are critical. This is where Structured Literacy and Orton-Gillingham come into play.

What Is Structured Literacy?

Structured Literacy is an explicit, systematic, and cumulative approach to teaching reading. It is based on decades of research from the science of reading, and is especially effective for students with dyslexia, though it benefits all learners.

Structured Literacy teaches:

  • Phonology (the sound structure of language)
  • Sound-symbol association (phonics)
  • Syllable structure
  • Morphology (word parts like roots, prefixes, and suffixes)
  • Syntax (grammar and sentence structure)
  • Semantics (meaning and vocabulary)


This method uses multisensory techniques (engaging sight, sound, touch, and movement) and progresses from simple to complex in a carefully sequenced way.

What Is Orton-Gillingham (OG)?

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is one of the oldest and most respected forms of Structured Literacy. Developed in the 1930s by neurologist Dr. Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham, it was designed specifically for students with dyslexia.

OG is:

  • Multisensory – uses visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning pathways
  • Explicit – every skill is directly taught, not assumed
  • Sequential and cumulative – builds from the most basic elements of language to more complex
  • Diagnostic and prescriptive – tailored to the individual learner’s needs and adjusted continuously

How Are They Connected?

Orton-Gillingham is a type of Structured Literacy. It’s one of several programs (along with Wilson, Barton, SPIRE, and others) that follow the core principles defined by Structured Literacy.

Educators trained in OG or similar methods are well-equipped to support students with dyslexia, especially when intervention begins early. These approaches have been shown to help students make meaningful gains in reading accuracy, fluency, and confidence.

Why It Matters

For parents and educators of students with dyslexia, knowing the difference between general reading programs and evidence-based interventions is vital. Many struggling readers don’t just need more practice — they need a different method.

Orton-Gillingham and Structured Literacy approaches give these learners the tools to succeed, not just in reading but across all academic subjects.

Why Project Uplift?

Project Uplift combines the strengths of both approaches through their Two-Phase program.  It is led by Orton-Gillingham certified facilitators and offers a practicum opportunity where educators can work directly with students whose literacy needs have already been identified. This guided, one-on-one, hands-on experience enables educators to apply their learning in real time—while simultaneously equipping students with dyslexia to build confidence and grow as capable, independent readers.