Barton Reading and Spelling Program
Built on the Science of Reading
What is it and Who is it for?
The Barton Reading and Spelling Program was created by Susan Barton, an internationally recognized expert in dyslexia. It is a highly regarded literacy intervention rooted in the Orton-Gillingham approach—a well-established, research-based method for teaching reading and spelling. The program follows a clear, structured, and sequential format in ten progressive levels. Each level reinforces and expands upon previously learned skills.
How Does it Work?
The Barton approach prioritizes explicit, direct instruction and manipulative based instruction. Each concept is clearly taught by the tutor, with careful attention to mastery before moving forward. This structured, step-by-step method is particularly effective for learners with dyslexia, who benefit most from systematic, clearly defined instruction when developing reading and spelling skills.
Multisensory Learning: Students use color-coded tiles to represent sounds and word parts, reinforcing learning through hands-on engagement.
Explicit Instruction: Every rule and pattern is clearly taught, allowing students time and practice to fully master each skill.
Systematic and Sequential Teaching: Skills are introduced in a carefully structured order, helping students build connections between concepts.
Ongoing Assessment: Progress is closely monitored, and students advance only after demonstrating mastery at each level.
Levels of the Barton Program
After a student completes the Barton Student Screening, all instruction begins with Level 1: Phonemic Awareness. The Barton System is made up of 10 levels, with each level focusing on particular reading and spelling skills:
Level 1: PHOENEMIC AWARENESS
Level 2: Consonants & Short Vowels
Level 3: Closed Syllables and Units
Level 4: Syllable Division & Vowel Teams
Level 5: Prefixes and Suffixes
Level 6: Six Reasons for Silent-E
Level 7: Vowel-R Syllables
Level 8: Advanced Vowel Teams
Level 9: Influences of Foreign Languages
Level 10: Greek Words & Latin Roots
Each level typically includes 10–15 lessons, and individual lessons are designed to be short—around five - ten minutes each. However, learning pace varies, so some students may need more or less time to complete them.
A common tutoring schedule is two one-hour sessions per week. With this consistency, students working at Level 3 or higher often take about 3 to 5 months to finish a level. Levels 1 and 2 are usually completed more quickly.
Overall, completing the full program generally takes about 2 to 3 years with steady practice. The program follows a structured, step-by-step sequence that builds skills gradually. This approach helps ensure that students develop a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced material. Not every student needs to complete all 10 levels; in some cases, instruction may end once the student is reading at grade level.
Commitment to the Program
The Barton Program requires tutoring at least twice a week. Once a week is not frequent or intense enough for retention, and three times a week is better. Your tutor will provide "homework" to help you work with your student at home for each week's lesson.
For More Information on the Barton System
Visit Susan Barton's Website here: