What Are Some of the Differences Between the Orton-Gillingham Approach and the UFLI Program?

When it comes to helping children with reading difficulties, two prominent instructional methods are the Orton-Gillingham approach and the UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) program. Both methodologies aim to improve literacy skills, particularly for students with dyslexia or other reading challenges, but they differ in their structure, implementation, and focus.

Orton-Gillingham Approach

The Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach, developed in the 1930s by Dr. Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham, is a foundational method for teaching reading. It is a structured, multisensory approach designed to address the needs of dyslexic students by teaching the connections between letters and sounds in a systematic way.

Key features of the Orton-Gillingham approach include:

1. Multisensory Learning: The OG method incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements to reinforce learning. For example, students might use letter tiles, write words in sand, or say sounds out loud to engage different senses.

2. Structured and Sequential: Lessons are carefully organized and progress from basic to more complex skills. This systematic approach helps build a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced concepts.

3. Individualized Instruction: OG is highly adaptable to individual student needs, allowing for personalized pacing and focus on specific areas where a student may be struggling.

4. Explicit Instruction: The method emphasizes clear, direct teaching of phonics, spelling, and grammar rules, which helps students understand the underlying principles of reading and writing.

UFLI Program

The University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI) program is a more recent development, reflecting contemporary research in literacy instruction. It is built on the principles of the Science of Reading, focusing on evidence-based strategies for teaching reading.

Key aspects of the UFLI program include:

1. Evidence-Based Practices: UFLI integrates research from the Science of Reading, which emphasizes the importance of phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. It incorporates findings from cognitive psychology and neuroscience to design effective teaching methods.

2. Structured Literacy: Like the OG approach, UFLI uses a structured literacy framework, but it also places a strong emphasis on the integration of language skills. It often incorporates elements such as morphology (the study of word forms) and syntax (sentence structure).

3. Comprehensive Curriculum: UFLI offers a detailed curriculum that includes assessments, instructional materials, and lesson plans. This curriculum is designed to be used in a variety of instructional settings, from one-on-one tutoring to classroom teaching.

4. Focus on Tiered Instruction: The UFLI program includes strategies for differentiating instruction based on student needs. It provides support for various levels of reading difficulty, from early interventions to more intensive remediation.

Comparative Analysis

Both Orton-Gillingham and UFLI share a commitment to structured, explicit instruction and a focus on phonics and phonemic awareness. However, their approaches differ in scope and application. The OG method is rooted in a historical tradition with a strong emphasis on multisensory learning and individualization. In contrast, UFLI builds on contemporary research and offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to address a broader range of literacy skills.

Parents considering these programs for their children should consider their child’s specific needs and learning style. The Orton-Gillingham approach may be particularly beneficial for those who thrive with multisensory experiences and need highly individualized instruction. Meanwhile, UFLI’s evidence-based, comprehensive curriculum may appeal to those seeking a research-backed, structured approach that integrates various aspects of reading and language development.

Ultimately, both methods have proven effective in supporting students with reading challenges. By understanding the strengths and focuses of each approach, parents can make informed decisions to best support their child’s literacy journey.