Logic of English is a comprehensive, Orton-Gillingham-based literacy curriculum that teaches reading, spelling, handwriting, and grammar by demonstrating that 98% of English words follow predictable rules through its system of 74 phonograms and 31 spelling rules.
What Is Logic of English?
Logic of English is a structured literacy curriculum created by Denise Eide that takes the mystery out of English spelling and reading. Built on the Orton-Gillingham methodology—proven especially effective for students with dyslexia—the program teaches that English is far more logical than it appears. Rather than treating irregular spellings as exceptions to memorize, Logic of English shows how 74 phonograms (letter-sound combinations) and 31 spelling rules explain the vast majority of English words. The multisensory approach combines visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning, making it effective for diverse learning styles.
Key Takeaways
- Based on Orton-Gillingham methodology and Science of Reading research
- Teaches that 98% of English words follow predictable patterns
- Two main programs: Foundations (ages 4-7) and Essentials (ages 8+)
- Covers phonics, spelling, reading, handwriting, grammar, and composition
- Particularly effective for students with dyslexia or reading difficulties
Foundations vs. Essentials
Foundations serves ages 4-7 (typically Pre-K through early elementary) with four levels: A, B, C, and D. Most families complete two levels per year—A and B in kindergarten, C and D in first grade. Lessons take 20-30 minutes daily and include games, multisensory activities, and integrated handwriting instruction. Essentials picks up for ages 8 and up, designed for students who need thorough introduction to how English works. Its 30 units cover the same ground more quickly and with more sophisticated application. Both programs are scripted for easy implementation—you open the book and teach.
How It Works
The curriculum centers on phonograms—the building blocks of English spelling. Students learn that the letter combination "ough" can say six different sounds, and that context determines which sound applies. They learn 31 spelling rules that explain patterns like why "c" sometimes says /s/ and sometimes says /k/. This systematic approach replaces the frustration of seemingly arbitrary spelling with understanding of actual patterns. Writing is integrated throughout: research shows that writing phonograms helps cement them in memory faster than flashcards alone. Games and activities built into each lesson keep young learners engaged.
Why It Works for Struggling Readers
The Orton-Gillingham methodology underlying Logic of English was developed specifically for students with dyslexia, making the program particularly effective for struggling readers. The multisensory approach—seeing, hearing, saying, and writing phonograms—creates multiple pathways to encoding. The explicit, systematic instruction eliminates guessing. Perhaps most importantly, students finally understand why English works the way it does rather than feeling like they're failing to memorize arbitrary exceptions. Many parents report dramatic attitude shifts: children who dreaded reading becoming enthusiastic about language.
What's Included
Curriculum sets include hardbound teacher guides with scripted lessons, student workbooks, phonogram flashcards, game cards, letter tiles for hands-on practice, and access to supplementary games. The company offers additional resources including apps, songs, coloring books, and the book "Uncovering the Logic of English" explaining the underlying system. For 2026, all orders fulfill directly through logicofenglish.com rather than through retailers. Complete Foundations sets run approximately $228 for Level A; subsequent levels cost less if you already have the core materials.
The Bottom Line
Logic of English brings order to a language often perceived as chaotic. By teaching the actual patterns underlying English spelling and reading, it transforms frustrated guessers into confident readers who understand why words work as they do. The structured, multisensory approach proves particularly valuable for students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties, though it serves typical learners equally well. For families tired of programs that treat English as fundamentally illogical, Logic of English demonstrates that our language makes far more sense than most curricula acknowledge.
