Skip To Main Content

Arts  |  Discovery  |  Enrichments  |  Language Arts  |  Mathematics  |  Physical Education  |  Reading

 

Creating Confident Readers

For nearly 30 years, Radcliffe Creek has been dedicated to cultivating successful readers, with the Orton-Gillingham (OG) methodology at the heart of our approach. Our expert teachers undergo extensive OG training, ensuring engaging and fun instruction tailored to each student's individual strengths and needs. We meet every reader where they are through a two-pronged approach:

Literature Classes

In small, ability-grouped literature classes, proficient readers delve into the process of reading, developing higher-order thinking skills, vocabulary, spelling, and fluency. The curriculum, grounded in Maryland State Reading Standards, exposes students to diverse genres. Vocabulary is derived directly from literature, emphasizing both meaning and usage, while spelling is tackled through an examination of rules and irregularities. With students at the center, teachers individualize instruction to amplify strengths and develop areas needing support.

Specialized Reading Program

Our specialized reading program embodies the Radcliffe Creek model of meeting student needs in a unique way. We employ a highly systematic, multi-sensory, phonetic approach through the Orton-Gillingham methodology, proven beneficial for those struggling with learning to read. OG follows a specific sequence, starting with individual phonemes and progressing through syllable types to master the patterns found in 75% of written English. Non-patterned "Sight Words" are also introduced systematically using both the Orton manual and Dolch and other graded word lists.

The ultimate goal is to foster fluent readers – those who read with expression and a natural, conversational flow. Fluency development combines decoding, reading rate, and overall comprehension, a process that requires diligent practice for our students. A typical reading class also incorporates phonological awareness, handwriting (print and cursive), and text comprehension.

Our comprehensive approach leverages specific tools and strategies, including:

  • Orton-Gillingham Approach
  • Visualizing and Verbalizing (VV) by Nanci Bell
  • Wilson Reading program
  • Explode The Code
  • OGstar App
  • Lindamood Phonemic Sequencing (LiPs)
  • Learning Ally audiobook program
  • Lexia online phonics program

This multi-faceted approach ensures every Radcliffe Creek student is empowered to Find Their Special Shine and become a confident, lifelong reader.