Attending the Orton-Gillingham training was an enlightening experience that deepened my understanding of structured literacy instruction. This evidence-based approach is designed to support students with dyslexia and other reading challenges, but its principles are beneficial for all learners. The training emphasized the importance of explicit, systematic, and multi-sensory instruction, which can significantly enhance reading, writing, and spelling skills.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the power of multi-sensory techniques in reinforcing language concepts. By engaging visual, auditory, and kinesthetic modalities simultaneously, students can form stronger connections and retain information more effectively. This approach is particularly effective for students who struggle with traditional methods of instruction.

Another key takeaway was the importance of individualized instruction. The Orton-Gillingham method stresses the need to tailor lessons to meet the unique needs of each student, allowing for differentiated instruction that addresses specific skill gaps. This personalized approach fosters a supportive learning environment where students feel confident and motivated to succeed.

In terms of classroom application, I plan to incorporate more multisensory activities into my literacy lessons, such as using sand trays for letter formation, incorporating movement into phonemic awareness activities, and utilizing color-coding strategies for spelling patterns. Additionally, I will adopt a more structured and sequential approach to teaching reading and spelling, ensuring that foundational skills are mastered before progressing to more complex concepts.

Overall, the Orton-Gillingham training has equipped me with effective strategies to support diverse learners and promote literacy development. By integrating these methods into my classroom, I aim to create an inclusive and engaging learning environment where all students can thrive.