wilson vs orton gillingham

Vaseline

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31-08-2024

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In the realm of educational approaches for teaching reading, two prominent methods are often compared: the Wilson Reading System and the Orton-Gillingham approach. Both methods have gained recognition for their effectiveness in teaching students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties. This article explores the key features, similarities, and differences between Wilson and Orton-Gillingham.

What is the Wilson Reading System?

The Wilson Reading System is a structured literacy program designed for students in grades 2-12 who require explicit instruction in reading and writing. Developed by Barbara Wilson, this program emphasizes the importance of phonemic awareness and phonics. Key characteristics include:

• Structured and Sequential: The program follows a specific sequence of lessons that build on one another, ensuring that students develop a solid foundation in reading skills.
• Multi-sensory Approach: Wilson incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to enhance learning and retention.
• Focus on High-Frequency Words: The program emphasizes the importance of mastering high-frequency sight words to facilitate fluent reading.

What is the Orton-Gillingham Approach?

The Orton-Gillingham approach is an instructional strategy based on the principles of phonics and the connections between sounds and letters. Developed by Dr. Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham, this approach is designed for individuals with dyslexia and focuses on teaching in a multisensory way. Key aspects include:

• Individualized Instruction: Orton-Gillingham is tailored to meet the specific needs of each student, providing a personalized learning experience.
• Systematic and Cumulative: The approach is structured and builds upon previously learned skills, ensuring mastery before moving on to more complex concepts.
• Multi-sensory Learning: Similar to Wilson, Orton-Gillingham employs visual, auditory, and tactile methods to help students connect sounds with letters and words.

Key Similarities

Both the Wilson Reading System and the Orton-Gillingham approach share several similarities:

• Focus on Phonics: Both methods prioritize phonics instruction as a fundamental component of reading development.
• Multi-sensory Techniques: They utilize multi-sensory techniques to cater to various learning styles and enhance engagement.
• Structured Approach: Each program offers a structured, sequential approach to teaching reading, ensuring that students progress at their own pace.

Key Differences

Despite their similarities, there are notable differences between the two approaches:

• Program Structure: Wilson is a defined program with specific materials and lesson plans, whereas Orton-Gillingham is more of an instructional philosophy that can be adapted by educators.
• Target Audience: While both methods can be used for students with dyslexia, Wilson is often used for older students, whereas Orton-Gillingham is suitable for a wider age range, including younger children.
• Training Requirements: Implementation of the Wilson Reading System typically requires specialized training, whereas Orton-Gillingham provides more flexibility in how educators are trained.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Wilson Reading System and the Orton-Gillingham approach offer valuable strategies for teaching reading to students with dyslexia and other learning challenges. While they share common principles, their unique characteristics and structures cater to different educational needs. Educators and parents must carefully consider the specific requirements of their students when choosing between these two effective reading programs.