The Wilson Reading System is a structured, multisensory reading program based on Orton-Gillingham principles, designed to help struggling readers and students with dyslexia through systematic phonics instruction.
What is the Wilson Reading System?
The Wilson Reading System (WRS) is a comprehensive, structured literacy program that systematically teaches the English language's structure using a multisensory approach. Created by Barbara Wilson based on Orton-Gillingham principles, it directly teaches decoding and encoding through a 12-step sequential curriculum. The program incorporates visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and tactile learning, featuring a unique "sound-tapping" system where students tap sounds on their fingers while breaking down words.
Key Takeaways
- Based on Orton-Gillingham principles and structured literacy research
- Uses multisensory instruction (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, tactile)
- 12-step sequential curriculum typically completed over 2-3 years
- Designed for grades 2-12 students with word-level reading deficits
- Certification training recommended for effective implementation
Who Wilson Reading Helps
Wilson was specifically designed for students in grades 2-12 and adults who haven't mastered decoding and spelling through other instruction methods. This includes students with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities who need intensive intervention. It's classified as a Tier 3 intervention in schools—meaning it's for students who need the most intensive support. If your child has struggled with other reading programs, has a dyslexia diagnosis, or shows persistent difficulty with sounding out words despite instruction, Wilson may be appropriate.
The Methodology
Every Wilson lesson follows a ten-part structure divided into three blocks of roughly 20-30 minutes each. Lessons include phonemic awareness work, word analysis instruction, reading and spelling practice, and cumulative review. The signature sound-tapping technique has students break words into sounds by tapping each phoneme on their fingers—a kinesthetic anchor that helps cement sound-symbol relationships. Instruction progresses through 12 steps that build systematically; students master each level before advancing. This isn't a quick fix—expect 2-3 years for full completion with lessons at least twice weekly.
Training Requirements
Here's the challenge for homeschoolers: Wilson strongly recommends instruction from certified teachers, and becoming certified requires significant investment. Level I Certification involves completing an intensive online course, attending a 3-day introductory workshop, and conducting minimum 65 one-hour lessons with lesson plans for each. Universities like Georgian Court offer certification programs for parents and tutors. While you can technically purchase materials without certification, Wilson advises against it—without proper training, the investment in expensive materials may not produce results.
Wilson vs. Other Orton-Gillingham Programs
The Bottom Line
Wilson Reading System represents the gold standard for structured literacy intervention, particularly for students with dyslexia. However, the significant training requirements create barriers for homeschool families. If your child needs intensive intervention and you're willing to pursue certification, Wilson delivers research-backed results. For many homeschoolers, the Barton Reading and Spelling System offers a more accessible Orton-Gillingham alternative designed specifically for parent instruction without formal training. Either path commits to the structured, multisensory approach that research shows struggling readers need.
