A Comparison of Orton-Gillingham to other methods of reading instruction

Method Language-based? Multisensory? Structured, Sequential, Cumulative? Cognitive? Flexible? Designed for LD Students?
Orton-Gillingham Method
Always Always Always Always Always Always
Other Orton-Gillingham based program (ie- Barton Reading system) Always can be - varies by program usually usually usually not Always
Phonics method, not based on Orton-Gillingham
Always can be usually not sometimes No No
Whole Language Method No can be No No No No
Language Experience Method No Always No No Always Always
Context Support Method No can be No No Always No

Visit this site for descriptions of the different reading instruction methods. See the about Orton-Gillingham page for definitions of the categories above. Please note that individual classrooms and tutors vary widely in their implementation of these methods and individuals vary in their training and experience levels. Always do your research when deciding on a method of instruction for you or your child.