how to become orton gillingham certified

2 min read 04-09-2024

how to become orton gillingham certified

The Orton-Gillingham approach is a well-known, structured method for teaching reading and writing to individuals with dyslexia and other language-based learning difficulties. If you're interested in becoming Orton-Gillingham certified, this guide will provide you with the necessary steps.

Understanding Orton-Gillingham

What is Orton-Gillingham?

The Orton-Gillingham approach combines phonetic instruction with a structured, systematic method of teaching. It emphasizes teaching the relationships between sounds and letters, which is crucial for effective reading and writing.

Who Can Benefit?

This certification is beneficial for educators, reading specialists, speech-language pathologists, and others who work with students struggling with literacy.

Steps to Become Orton-Gillingham Certified

1. Research Accredited Programs

Before enrolling in a certification program, ensure it is accredited and recognized by relevant professional organizations. Look for programs that are endorsed by the Orton-Gillingham Academy or similar institutions.

2. Complete Required Coursework

Most programs require you to complete a specific number of hours of coursework. This typically includes:

Theory of the Orton-Gillingham Approach: Understanding the principles behind the method.
Curriculum Development: Learning how to create and adapt lessons based on individual student needs.
Practical Application: Gaining hands-on experience in implementing the approach with real students.

3. Gain Teaching Experience

You will usually need to complete a certain amount of teaching experience under supervision. This experience is crucial for applying the concepts learned in your coursework. Make sure to document your hours and student progress.

4. Complete Practicum Requirements

Many certification programs require a practicum, which is an intensive period of supervised teaching where you apply what you've learned in a real classroom setting. During this time, you'll work closely with a mentor who can provide feedback and guidance.

5. Pass the Certification Exam

After completing your coursework and practicum, you will need to pass a certification exam. This exam typically assesses your knowledge of the Orton-Gillingham approach and your ability to apply it effectively in teaching.

6. Maintain Certification

Once you are certified, it’s important to stay current in the field. This may involve:

Continuing education courses
Attending workshops and seminars
Participating in professional organizations

Conclusion

Becoming Orton-Gillingham certified is a rewarding journey that equips you with the skills to help students overcome literacy challenges. By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the certification process and make a positive impact in the lives of those you teach. If you’re passionate about education and helping students achieve their reading and writing goals, pursuing this certification may be the perfect path for you.