Fluency is important because it is closely related to comprehension. Fluency in reading means being able to read text accurately, quickly and with expression. Fluent readers can do this because they do not have problems with word recognition. As a result, they can focus on the meaning of a text. Recent research shows that fluency also depends on the ability to group words appropriately during reading. This means fluent readers recognize words quickly, but also know where to place emphasis or pause during reading.
Word recognition is necessary but not sufficient for fluent reading. The reader must construct meaning from the recognized words. Fluent readers can do both tasks at the same time. They can do this because of efficient word recognition and oral language skills. Guided practice in reading generally increases fluency.
Practical Applications
Word recognition is necessary but not sufficient for fluent reading. The reader must construct meaning from the recognized words. Fluent readers can do both tasks at the same time. They can do this because of efficient word recognition and oral language skills. Guided practice in reading generally increases fluency.
Practical Applications
- Teaching word recognition skills is an important first step. The second step is to ensure that students can develop speed and ease in recognizing words and reading connected text.
- To assess fluency, teachers need to listen to their students reading aloud. They should provide feedback to the students about their reading. They also need to determine how much is understood.
- The reading of texts with high frequency words will encourage fluency if the texts are interesting and meaningful to the reader.
- For non-native speakers of a language, word recognition ability must match their oral language development.
- Repeated reading and paired reading (also called buddy reading) are examples of activities that promote fluency through practice.
