Bright Sparks
(Specialized Reading Program)
Offered in Windsor-Essex
Bright Sparks
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Bright Sparks is a specialized 1:1 reading program designed to provide a holistic, personalized experience for children who may not fit into the traditional one-size-fits-all teaching methods of reading.
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Every child is unique and, with a combination of the Orton-Gillingham and guided discovery approaches, we can tailor instruction to the individual needs and interest of each child – creating an environment that fosters exploration, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of language, while empowering them to take ownership of their learning and progress at pace they are comfortable at.
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Whilst reading challenges can impact a student’s confidence and self-esteem, the Bright Sparks program aims to rebuild that confidence by providing a supportive environment where students can experience success and celebrate all their achievements, no matter how big or small.
Bright Sparks equips both children and their parents with valuable tools and strategies to guide each child on their path to becoming a confident and proficient reader!
What is the Orton-Gillingham approach?
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The Orton-Gillingham approach, developed by Dr. Samuel T. Orton and Anna Gillingham, is a structured, direct, and multi-sensory approach to teaching literacy when reading, writing, and spelling do not come easily to the individual.
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At the core of this approach is the recognition that reading difficulties often stem from a lack of phonemic awareness—the ability to hear, identify, and manipulate individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken language.
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Lessons are carefully structured and sequenced to ensure a logical progression of skills. Concepts build upon one another, providing a solid foundation for reading and spelling.
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The use of multiple sensory modalities—sight, sound, touch—is a hallmark of the Orton-Gillingham approach. Students engage in activities that involve listening, speaking, reading, and writing, often using tactile materials such as sand, clay, or magnetic letters. Concepts are taught explicitly, with a clear focus on explaining rules, patterns, and strategies.
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Instruction is highly individualized; teachers or tutors assess each student's strengths and weaknesses and tailor lessons accordingly.
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Students are taught to decode (read) and encode (spell) words simultaneously; they learn how to break down words into their constituent sounds and then blend those sounds together to read or spell words.
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The Orton-Gillingham approach emphasizes the teaching of phonological rules, spelling patterns, and syllable structures, providing a framework for students to decode and encode words independently.
What is the guided discovery approach?
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The guided discovery approach is an educational method that places learners at the center of their own learning experience.
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Unlike traditional teacher-centered instruction, in which information is simply imparted to students, guided discovery encourages active participation and exploration. In this approach, teachers act as facilitators, guiding students through a process of inquiry, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
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Guided discovery begins with posing thought-provoking questions or presenting open-ended problems to students. These challenges serve as catalysts for exploration and investigation.
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Students are encouraged to engage with the material, ask questions, and seek solutions independently or in collaboration with their peers. Teachers provide support, feedback, and guidance along the way, ensuring that students stay on track and develop a deep understanding of the subject matter.
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This approach not only promotes autonomy and independence but also nurtures essential skills such as analytical thinking, decision-making, and research abilities.
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Guided discovery goes beyond rote memorization; it fosters a sense of curiosity and ownership over one's learning journey.
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Ultimately, it equips learners with the tools to not only acquire knowledge but also apply it to real-world situations, making it a valuable pedagogical approach across various educational settings and subject areas.
Contact us if you'd like to:
- discuss how our specialized reading program may benefit your child
- get your child registered for the program
