VIDBE-Q Volume 66 Issue 4
Multi-Sensory Literacy Instruction
The Orton-Gillingham method, also known as Alphabetic Phonics, provides
a multi-sensory approach to the explicit instruction of reading (Sayeski et al.,
2019). Often used with students with dyslexia, this method combines the
instruction of letter attributes including their shapes, names, and sounds along with
direct instruction in basic rules of reading. As Saveski et al. wrote, "the underlying
principle of OG is to systematically build students' understanding of word parts."
(2019, p. 244).
These include instruction in different syllable types (open, closed, CVC,
CVCE, etc.) as well as explicit instruction in digraphs, trigraphs, combinations,
and diphthongs. There is a guide to the order of introduction of these different
concepts, and a "key word" is assigned to each letter name (examples include
"igloo: i" and "iris, i"). This can be adapted to a tactile picture or an object, and
practicing the key words with the letter names, shapes, and sounds reinforces the
sound-symbol correspondence. Children also practice the sequence of the alphabet
through a "touch and name" activity that involves using the left hand to touch and
name letters a-m, and the right hand to touch and name letters n-z. Parents can
support children using games involving the letter name, shape, and sound. Children
can practice reading poems, nursery rhymes, reading in different areas of the room
can all be fun ways to mix it up. Figure 2 shows how a braillewriter can be used to
