When I first started using the Orton-Gillingham approach, I remember wondering if I was “doing it right.” I wasn’t in a traditional classroom. I was teaching phonics online to small groups and 1:1 students. Most of what I found online talked about full reading blocks, centers, and in-person routines. I needed something that worked digitally and stayed true to the structured, multi-sensory approach of OG.
Over time, I found a flow that felt good, for me and for my students. I’ve stuck with it ever since.
My OG Phonics Lesson Routine for Online Classes
Here’s what a typical 30-minute phonics lesson looks like in my virtual classroom:
Quick Review (5 min)
I always start with a fast-paced warm-up. Depending on the day, this might be:
- Sound drills with letter cards or tiles
- Reviewing keywords with visual posters
- Quick dictation of a few review words or patterns
This helps activate prior knowledge and get our brains in “phonics mode.”
Teach a New Concept (10 min)
Next, I introduce a new phonics skill, just one at a time. I keep it simple and direct, using:
- Explicit language (“This is how we spell /k/ at the end of a word…”)
- Visual aids (anchor posters or on-screen examples)
- Tapping, tracing, and blending for multi-sensory input, even over Zoom!
Guided Practice (10 min)
We practice the skill right away through:
- Word sorts
- Reading connected words
- Matching games or short word chains
I guide students through each step, asking them to explain their thinking out loud to build awareness.
Independent Practice (5 min)
To wrap up, I assign a quick, independent task (like a worksheet or mini-game.) I often screen share it or drop it into the chat for them to complete after class. It reinforces the new skill without overwhelming them.
Having the Right Tools Makes It So Much Easier
One thing that made a big difference for me was creating a complete OG aligned resource I could pull from every week. Instead of piecing together posters here and a word sort there, I bundled everything I needed: visuals, games, word lists, and worksheets—all organized by skill.
Everything follows a similar structure and format, which helps students know what to expect and minimize the amount of time I spend on directions.
If you’re teaching phonics online (or even in person) and looking for a structured system, this Orton-Gillingham Complete Bundle might save you a lot of planning time. It’s what I use to keep lessons consistent and effective.
OG phonics lessons don’t have to be complicated or only work in a traditional setting. Whether you’re in a classroom or teaching from your laptop, having a simple, repeatable routine (plus solid materials) can make all the difference.
Want a peek at the resource I use? You can find it here.
