What is Fluency?

Fluency is the ability to read text accurately without problems with word identification and with proper expression. Fluent readers use punctuation to determine where to place emphasis.

Fluency is closely related with reading comprehension. The more time it takes to decode accurately, the less time there is for meaning making. Fluent readers make decoding automatic. Therefore, they have more time for meaning making.

What did the National Reading Panel find?

The National Reading Panel reviewed studies that measured aspects of fluency or comprehension through repeated readings. The findings indicate that repeated oral readings with feedback or guidance were the most effective way to improve fluency.

How do you assess Fluency?

The National Reading Panel recommends the following techniques for assessing fluency: IRI (informal reading inventory), miscue analysis, pausing indices, and reading speed calculations).

What are the implications for reading instruction?

• More attention is needed for direction instruction in fluency.
• Repeated readings or other procedures where students read passages orally, multiple times are the most effective methods for improving fluency.
• Students need feedback or guidance during repeated oral readings.

Want to know more?

Check out the actual report at www.nationalreadingpanel.org.

Related Readings * Suggested Resources * Activities

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