As more parents and educators turn to evidence-based methods for teaching reading, it’s natural to wonder how different approaches compare. One common question is: Is Orton-Gillingham part of the Science of Reading? While both are rooted in helping children—especially those with reading difficulties—build strong literacy skills, they’re not exactly the same thing. Understanding how they align (and where they differ) can help you make informed decisions about the kind of support your child might need.
What Is the Science of Reading?
The Science of Reading refers to a vast body of interdisciplinary research that explains how children learn to read—and how they should be taught. It brings together findings from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, linguistics, and education to guide effective reading instruction.
This research emphasizes the importance of explicit, systematic teaching in five key areas: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. The goal is to build a strong foundation in how language works, so children can become confident, independent readers. The Science of Reading is especially helpful for students who struggle with reading, including those with dyslexia or other language-based learning differences.
What Is the Orton-Gillingham Approach?
Orton-Gillingham (OG) is one of the oldest and most respected structured literacy approaches, developed in the 1930s by neuropsychiatrist Dr. Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham. It was designed specifically to help individuals with dyslexia learn to read and write effectively.
The OG approach is:
- Multisensory (involving sight, sound, touch, and movement)
- Structured and sequential (moving from simple to complex language skills)
- Cumulative (each lesson builds on previous ones)
- Diagnostic and prescriptive (lessons are tailored based on the child’s needs)
Because it focuses so deeply on how language works, Orton-Gillingham is often considered a “gold standard” for dyslexia intervention.
How Orton-Gillingham Aligns with the Science of Reading
So, is Orton-Gillingham part of the Science of Reading? In many ways, yes—it aligns closely with the principles that the Science of Reading promotes.
Both emphasize:
- Explicit instruction in phonemic awareness and phonics
- A structured and sequential approach to teaching reading
- Decoding strategies and sound-symbol relationships
- An understanding of the building blocks of language (like syllables and morphemes)
Orton-Gillingham’s strong focus on decoding and word recognition fits well within the Science of Reading framework. The main difference is that OG is a specific method, while the Science of Reading is a broader body of research. However their goals are aligned, and OG is often used as a practical application of that research.
Key Differences (and Why They Matter)
While OG and the Science of Reading share many similarities, they’re not interchangeable. Here’s why that distinction matters:
- OG is a program or methodology, whereas the Science of Reading is a foundation of research used to evaluate and guide many methods.
- Implementation varies with OG—different programs or tutors may adapt it in unique ways, which can affect consistency.
- Some OG-based instruction includes more individualized components, especially when used in therapeutic or one-on-one settings.
This means not every Orton-Gillingham program will look the same, and not all will follow the Science of Reading framework equally well unless they stay true to its evidence-based principles.
Is Orton-Gillingham Enough on Its Own?
For many children—especially those with dyslexia—Orton-Gillingham can be a powerful tool. Its structured, multisensory format supports how the brain learns to read, and it often helps students who haven’t thrived in other settings.
However, OG is most effective when:
- It’s used consistently and with fidelity to the method
- Instructors are properly trained
- It’s part of a broader support system that includes vocabulary and comprehension work, not just decoding
In short, OG works best when it’s part of a comprehensive approach, one that follows the Science of Reading while also addressing your child’s unique needs.
Conclusion
So—is Orton-Gillingham part of the Science of Reading? While they’re not the same thing, they go hand in hand. Orton-Gillingham is a structured, practical way to apply many of the principles found in the Science of Reading. For children who struggle with reading—especially those with dyslexia—it can offer a clear, supportive path forward.
Every child learns differently, and what works for one may not work for another. But with the right approach, grounded in research and tailored to your child, meaningful progress is possible.
Looking for reading support that aligns with your child’s needs?
We’re here to help you find the right approach. Contact us now to learn more about how our tutors and programs support evidence-based reading instruction.