letrs vs orton-gillingham

2 min read 05-09-2024

In the world of literacy education, two prominent approaches stand out: LETRS and Orton-Gillingham. Both methodologies aim to enhance reading skills, particularly among struggling readers, but they differ significantly in their philosophy, structure, and implementation. This article will delve into the nuances of each program, comparing their strengths and applications in the classroom.

What is LETRS?

LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) is a comprehensive professional development program designed for educators. It focuses on the science of reading and equips teachers with the knowledge and skills to teach reading effectively. LETRS emphasizes:

The Science of Reading: Grounded in research, LETRS teaches teachers about phonetics, phonology, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and writing.
Teacher Training: LETRS provides extensive training for teachers, enabling them to understand how students learn to read and how to diagnose and address reading difficulties.
Whole-Class Instruction: While it can be tailored for individual students, LETRS is primarily designed for whole-class instruction, integrating strategies into regular lessons.

What is Orton-Gillingham?

Orton-Gillingham is a structured, multi-sensory approach to reading instruction, particularly for students with dyslexia. It is rooted in the principles developed by Dr. Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham. Key features include:

Multi-Sensory Techniques: Orton-Gillingham incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles to help students grasp reading concepts.
Structured and Sequential: The program follows a systematic, step-by-step approach, gradually introducing concepts from basic to complex.
Individualized Instruction: Orton-Gillingham is often used in one-on-one tutoring settings, allowing for personalized pacing and targeted intervention based on the student's needs.

Key Differences

Approach to Learning

LETRS focuses on equipping teachers with strategies for whole-class instruction, emphasizing a research-based understanding of reading development.
Orton-Gillingham, in contrast, prioritizes direct instruction for students who struggle, using a tailored approach that addresses individual learning differences.

Target Audience

LETRS is designed for all educators, providing a broad foundation in literacy instruction that can be applied across various classrooms.
Orton-Gillingham specifically targets students with reading difficulties, particularly those with dyslexia, and is often delivered by specialized tutors.

Implementation

LETRS can be implemented in a classroom setting, with teachers integrating the strategies into their curriculum and lesson plans.
Orton-Gillingham typically requires a more formal tutoring structure, often involving sessions dedicated solely to reading intervention.

Conclusion

Both LETRS and Orton-Gillingham are valuable tools in the effort to improve literacy among students. LETRS provides a comprehensive approach for teachers to understand and deliver effective reading instruction, while Orton-Gillingham offers a specialized method for supporting students with specific learning challenges. The choice between the two depends on the needs of the students and the instructional goals of the educators. Understanding the strengths and applications of each approach is essential for creating an effective literacy program.