The writing road to reading: From theory to practice

Area of Science:

• Educational Psychology
• Cognitive Science
• Special Education

Background:

• Orton-based programs are crucial for language acquisition in both regular and special education.
• The Spalding Method's theoretical underpinnings trace back to Dr. Samuel T. Orton's concepts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To trace the theoretical foundations of The Writing Road to Reading by Romalda B. Spalding.
• To validate the Spalding Method using current cognitive science and learning theory.
• To present pilot project data on the method's success with diverse student populations.

Main Methods:

• Tracing theoretical foundations from Dr. Samuel T. Orton to current research.
• Incorporating direct, multisensory instruction in seven key reading processes.
• Applying principles of skill learning and instruction within the Spalding Method.

Main Results:

• The Spalding Method is validated by current cognitive science and learning theory.
• Pilot projects demonstrated success with regular and special education children in multiple states.
• The method effectively integrates direct, multisensory instruction for skilled reading.

Conclusions:

• The Spalding Method provides essential elements for successful language teaching.
• The approach is supported by scientific evidence and practical application.
• Direct, multisensory instruction is key to the method's efficacy for all learners.