Services
What is the Barton Reading & Spelling System?
The Barton Reading & Spelling System is a research-based, structured literacy program designed for students who struggle with reading, writing, and spelling, including those with dyslexia and other learning differences. It breaks literacy skills into clear, manageable steps, providing a systematic approach that makes reading and spelling more accessible.
​
At Rosedale Readers, the Barton System is the foundation of every lesson. Using this method, students build skills in a step-by-step, mastery-based way, gaining confidence as they progress. The program is structured to help students of all ages improve their reading, spelling, and written expression over time, supporting long-term success in school and beyond.
the barton system works
Backed by decades of research, the Barton System is built on the understanding that reading challenges, including dyslexia, do not have to define a child’s future. Studies show that most reading difficulties can be overcome with the right approach and a knowledgeable, trained instructor.
​
Inspired by the work of Dr. Samuel Orton and Anna Gillingham in the 1930s, the Barton System brings their proven, structured methods into today’s tutoring sessions. As a leading Orton-Gillingham–based program, it provides a personalized, step-by-step approach to reading, spelling, and writing. The program is designed to help students build skills, confidence, and independence, making learning more accessible, empowering, and even enjoyable.
how it works
One-on-one learning is the core of the Barton System. Classes are held either at the learning centre in Leaside (822 Millwood Road) or virtually through the interactive Koala Go platform. Using tools like Whizzimo and color-coded letter tiles, students connect sounds to letters and learn to decode words with confidence.
The Barton System is a structured, step-by-step program with ten levels. By Level 10, students typically reach mid-ninth-grade reading and spelling skills, a key milestone in functional literacy. After each level, students receive a personalized certificate to celebrate progress.
Susan Barton, a globally acknowledged dyslexia expert and the visionary behind the Barton Reading & Spelling Program, dives into essential topics. Gain insights on common myths, navigating the disability label, classroom accommodations, and more.
CURRICULUM
Phonemic Awareness
We teach the 7 essential phonemic awareness skills as rapidly as possible.
-
Lesson 1: CV and VC nonsense words
-
Lesson 2: CVC nonsense words
-
Lesson 3: VCC nonsense words
-
Lesson 4: CCV nonsense words
-
Lesson 5: Rhyming & Real Words
PREREQUISITES
A Barton student must:
-
Be at least 5 years old and in kindergarten
-
Can speak and comprehend spoken English
-
Have an IQ of 71 or higher
-
Struggles with spelling when writing stories, and can not easily sound out unknown words when reading
-
Pass our Barton Student Screening
7 ways rosedale readers ensures success
1. Every student is welcomed and supported as part of the Rosedale Readers community.
2. One-on-one sessions are delivered directly by a trained and licensed tutor, focusing entirely on the student for fully personalized instruction.
3. The evidence-based Barton Reading & Spelling System supports students with diagnosed or suspected dyslexia, as well as those needing to close literacy gaps.
4. Instruction targets essential areas such as phonemic and phonological awareness, sound-symbol associations, spelling rules, accuracy, and fluency.
5. Lessons are customized to each student’s unique learning needs and pace.
6. Positive reinforcement builds confidence, fosters interest in literacy, and strengthens self-assurance.
7. Learning is engaging while addressing specific differences in reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), and spelling (dysorthographia).
Barton Resources & Support
Rosedale Readers incorporates a wide range of specialized resources to enhance the effectiveness of the Barton System.
Whizzimo
Spelling Success Games
Stand Alone Books
Sight Word Games
Koala Go
Spelling Rules
Goodbye Zoom Boredom!
Join us in the incredible Koala Go platform that is transforming online learning for young learners. Ditch the non-interactive ways of learning and make classes more fun!
