Reading Fluency
Fluency is the ability
to read text accurately and quickly. Fluency is important because it
provides a bridge between word recognition and comprehension. Because
fluent readers do not have to concentrate on decoding the words they can
focus their attention on what the text means.
How can you help
children become more fluent readers?
1) Provide them with a model of a fluent reader.
2) Have children reread passages as you offer guidance.
3) Combine reading instruction with opportunities to read books matched
to their independent reading ability.
Here are some teaching
ideas to build fluency.
Child-adult reading:
The child reads one-on-one with an adult (parent, teacher, volunteer,
grandparent). The adult reads the text first providing the model. The
child reads the same passage to the adult with the adult providing
assistance and encouragement. The child rereads the passage until the
reading is fluent. This may take three to four re-readings.
Choral reading: In
choral, or unison, reading, children read along as a group with you or
another fluent adult reader. Children must see the same text you are
reading. Children reread three to five times (not necessarily on the
same day). They should then be able to read the text independently.
Tape assisted reading:
In tape-assisted reading, children read along in their books as they
hear a fluent reader read the book. Books need to be at a child's
independent reading level and the rate is best at 80-100 words per
minute. The tape should not have sound effects or music. The first read
involves only listening. Next the child should try to read along with
the tape. Reading along should continue until the child is able to read
the book independently.
Partner reading: In
partner reading, paired children take turns reading aloud to each other.
More fluent readers can be paired with less fluent readers. The stronger
reader reads a paragraph or page first, providing the mood. Then the
less fluent reader reads the same text aloud. Two readers of equal
ability can practice reading after hearing the teacher read the passage.
Putting
Reading First, The Research Building Blocks for Teaching Children to
Read, Partnership for Reading, U.S. Dept. of Education
Reading Success
