35 Lesson Plans - An Orton-Gillingham Reading & Spelling Program summary

Structured and Systematic Approach

In 35 Lesson Plans - An Orton-Gillingham Reading & Spelling Program by Evelyn Reiss, the author introduces an instructional program designed to help struggling readers and spellers. This program is based on the Orton-Gillingham approach, a structured, sequential, multisensory, and phonics-based method that has been proven effective for individuals with dyslexia and other learning difficulties.

The book begins with an explanation of the Orton-Gillingham principles and the rationale behind the program. It emphasizes the importance of a systematic and cumulative approach to teaching reading and spelling, ensuring that students grasp the foundational skills before moving on to more complex concepts.

Lesson Plans and Activities

Reiss then presents 35 lesson plans, each designed to be taught over the course of a week. These plans are organized into four levels, starting with basic phonemic awareness and progressing to more advanced spelling and reading rules. Each lesson includes a detailed outline of the material to be covered, as well as specific activities and resources to be used, such as flashcards, games, and worksheets.

The lessons are carefully structured to ensure that students have ample opportunities to practice and reinforce their skills. For example, students learn about the short vowel sounds in the first lesson, and then practice reading and spelling words with these sounds in subsequent lessons. This repetitive, multisensory approach helps solidify the connections between sounds and letters in the students' minds.

Adaptability and Flexibility

One of the strengths of the 35 Lesson Plans is its adaptability. While the program is designed to be taught over 35 weeks, the author acknowledges that each student progresses at their own pace. Thus, teachers can modify the pace and intensity of instruction to suit their students' needs, spending more or less time on each lesson as necessary.

Furthermore, the program is designed to be used with individual students or small groups, making it suitable for a variety of educational settings. The lessons can also be tailored to suit different age groups, from young children just learning to read to older students struggling with spelling and decoding.

Integration and Assessment

As the program progresses, students are introduced to new concepts and skills, such as vowel teams, syllable division rules, and suffixes. Each new lesson builds upon the previous ones, integrating new material with previously learned content. This approach helps students see the connections between different spelling and reading patterns, enhancing their overall understanding.

The 35 Lesson Plans also includes regular review and assessment activities to monitor students' progress. These assessments are designed to be informal and low-stakes, allowing teachers to gauge their students' understanding without adding unnecessary stress or pressure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 35 Lesson Plans - An Orton-Gillingham Reading & Spelling Program by Evelyn Reiss provides a well-structured, adaptable, and systematic approach to teaching reading and spelling. By following the Orton-Gillingham principles, the program aims to empower struggling readers and spellers with the foundational skills they need to succeed. With its emphasis on multisensory instruction, regular review, and adaptability, this program offers a comprehensive and effective tool for educators working with students who have difficulty with reading and spelling.