The instructional approaches used at Engage the Brain support all types of learners. Each student is provided with a personalized plan that is based on the individual’s areas of need and their strengths. We utilize various approaches and strategies that are based in research and science. Approaches include Orton-Gillingham, Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes, Multisensory Math Instruction, Seeing My Time, and other explicit and multisensory research-based strategies.
Individualized
Learning is a process, which can feel hard and overwhelming. Our goal is for each of our students to find success in their learning. We want our students to feel empowered by understanding their personal strengths and areas of need. When a student has tools in their learning tool belt they can better conquer areas that are more challenging. Students should feel that their ability and competence grow with effort.
Direct
A direct instruction teaching model is used throughout our teaching. Students are provided with a purpose and rationale for learning a new strategy or skill, clear expectations, demonstrations, and time to practice with specialist feedback until mastery is achieved. A direct instruction model includes a structured, systematic, and effective research-based methodology. This approach is optimal to maximize students’ academic growth.
Multisensory
Multisensory teaching techniques support all students. They develop students’ mental agility by encouraging them to use many parts of the brain, which allows new concepts, skills, and strategies to create new neural pathways and stay fixed in memory. It is particularly helpful for teaching students identified with language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia and dysgraphia.
Students identified with a language-based learning difference need to develop new neural pathways to learn the reading code. Multisensory instruction provides opportunity for speaking, writing, and doing all at the same time to make new concepts stick. When a learner can generalize their learned skills in new settings, they demonstrate true understanding.
We use a number of multisensory approaches for teaching reading, writing, and math skills at Engage the Brain. Many students come to us for the Orton-Gillingham Approach, developed by Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham in the 1930’s. Orton-Gillingham (also known as OG), is an Approach to teaching reading based on time-tested practice and scientific evidence on how individuals learn to read and write.
We also utilize a range of other approaches for reading, writing, math, executive functioning, and language. Instructional materials based in the science of learning are considered "gold standards" for students with learning differences.
EtB uses science-based instructional approaches, including:
- Orton-Gillingham Approach
- Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes
- Institute for Excellence in Writing
- The Writing Revolution/Teaching Basic Writing Skills
- Handwriting Without Tears
- Read Naturally
- Multisensory Math
- Multisensory Reading
- Woodin Math
- Seeing My Time
- Multisensory Approaches to Printing and Cursive
Instructional strategies for diverse learners are essential for creating inclusive, effective learning environments that meet the unique needs of every student. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach, educators use flexible, evidence-based methods like differentiated instruction, scaffolding, and student-centered learning to adapt content, pacing, and delivery. These instructional strategies for diverse learners help teachers align instruction with individual learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds, improving engagement and comprehension across the classroom. By incorporating a mix of visual, auditory, and hands-on techniques, instructional approaches can support deeper understanding while promoting equity and long-term academic success for all learners.