Orthographic Processing

/

Table of Contents

Understanding Orthographic Processing

Orthographic processing is a mental process and involves our ability to recognize letters and letter patterns. In other words, it’s our ability to process the way a word looks. It is a crucial element to reading words and remembering spelling patterns.

""

Orthographic Processing & Spelling

Spelling is the ultimate cumulation of using orthographic processing and memory. Students must process the way the word looks and also store the word in memory exactly as it presented to them.

Th English language has  several ways to spell one sound. Let’s take the long (a) sound for example: a-e (cake), ai (nail), ei (vein), eigh (weight), ea (steak).

A student must rely on their orthographic muscles to decide which spelling is correct. There are no contact clues for help decide if they made the right choice of spelling. 

 

""

Orthographic Processing & Reading

Orthographic processing plays an important role in automatic word recognition and comprehension.

The process is as follows:

  1. Children process and recognize the letters and words in a text (orthographic processing)
  2. They store letter patterns (re-,un-, -ing, -tion, etc.) and whole words in their orthographic memory
  3. Repeated exposure to letter patterns and words leads to automatic word recognition
  4. Automatic word recognition allows children to comprehend what they are reading

Automatic word recognition is the key to comprehension. When children can read words automatically, their brain is no longer stuck decoding every word. They now have the mental bandwidth to focus on comprehension and really enjoy reading.

""

Orthographic Processing & Sight Words

Sight words are frequently used words that children should recognize instantly, without the need for decoding. They are exceptionally difficult because many of them do not follow the phonics rules and require children to memorize them. Memorizing words requires students to work all their orthographic muscles.  Building a strong sight word vocabulary is crucial for fluent reading and comprehension.

To enhance sight word recognition skills, try incorporating fun and interactive activities. 

  1. Sight Word Bingo: Gamify the learning process for you littles! Games like sight word bingo are leveled and allow your child to practice their sight words in the context of a game.
  2. Online Resources: Try taking advantage of free online games like the ones linked in this article. The key is over exposure to these words so try to make them as enjoyable as possible!
  3. Explore word origins: Many instant words do not follow phonics rules due their word origins. Play detective and research why the words do not follow the rules. Follow the link to our article How To Teach Sight Words for more information on this.
  4. Analyze word parts: This method asks your children to become word detectives and help find the irregularities in words. Follow the link to our sight words article for more information.
""

Difficulties To Be Aware Of

When children struggle with orthographic processing, they may find it challenging to decode words, memorize spelling patterns, and grasp the visual aspects of reading and writing.

Common difficulties faced by struggling learners in this area can include:

  1. Confusing what letters look like: d and b, h and n, g and j
  2. Transposing letters: spelling fro instead of for
  3. Over-reliance on sound features to spell: spelling bot instead of bought
  4. Learning Sight Words

Home Activities & Support

As parents, we have the power to create a supportive learning environment at home. Here are some practical suggestions to foster orthographic processing skills:

  1. Make reading a daily habit: Set aside dedicated time for reading. Encourage your child to read aloud, and take turns reading together. Discuss the stories, characters, and plot to promote comprehension skills.
  2. Engage in word-building activities: Explore word families and rhyming words. Create word walls or use magnetic letters to build words. Play word puzzles or engage in word search activities to strengthen spelling skills.
  3. Create a print-rich environment: Surround your child with words! Label objects around the house, use sticky notes with reminders, and display books, magazines, and newspapers within reach. By immersing them in a print-rich environment, you’ll foster a natural curiosity for words.
the word questions in tiles

Commonly Asked Questions

  • How does orthographic processing impact reading and spelling skills?

It forms the foundation of reading and spelling. Children with strong orthographic processing skills can quickly and accurately decode words, recognize sight words, and understand spelling patterns. Difficulties can lead to challenges in reading fluency, comprehension, and spelling accuracy.

  • Can assistive technology be helpful for children with orthographic processing difficulties?

Absolutely! Assistive technology tools, such as text-to-speech software, and speech-to-text programs can support struggling learners with orthographic difficulties. These tools provide alternative methods for accessing and expressing written information, reducing barriers to learning.

  •  How can I collaborate effectively with my child’s teachers and educational professionals?

Open and ongoing communication with your child’s teachers and professionals is crucial. Share information about your child’s strengths, challenges, and any strategies that have been effective at home. Stay informed about your child’s progress, and actively participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings or parent-teacher conferences.

  •  Are orthographic processing difficulties common in dyslexia?

Yes, these difficulties are often associated with dyslexia. Dyslexia is a specific learning disorder that affects reading and language processing.