Fluency
Fluency is the ability to read words accurately, quickly, and with the correct expression. Fluent readers are able to sound natural as they read out loud as thought it was them just specking. As they read out loud it is effortlessly and with expression. Fluency is critical because it is the bridge between identify words and constructing a meaning to the text. Fluency is the bridge too comprehension. Our brains are limited to how many things we can pay attention too. If a child is focused more on decoding unfamiliar words then they are more likely not focusing comprehending what they are reading. A fluent reader is not focused on decoding words because they are able to recognize words automatically. They are able to group the words in context quickly to help them gain meaning. When children are not fluent readers then their reading is slow and choppy and they will have a harder time finding the meaning of the text.
Elements of Fluency:
1. Reading Rate: rate is apart of fluency but reading should not be a race. The reader just needs to be able to adjust your speed based on the difficulty of the text and the context of the text.
2. Accuracy: it is important for readers to be able to decode words automatically so that they are able to devote most of their mental energy to the meaning of the text rather than to decoding it. (Syllabic Analysis: is the process of dividing words into pronounceable units)
3. Prosody (Expression): this is the ability to compromises all the variables of timing, phrasing, emphasis and information that speakers use to help convey aspects of meaning. This is when the reader is reading out loud with feeling.
Strategies for Building Fluency:
-Re-reading: this is one of the best ways to develop fluency. First time they read their focus is on identifying the words. The second time will be more focused on putting the words together into meaningful units. The third time, the reader will be able to read the text automatically, with good expression and they will be able to focus on understanding the meaning behind the text.
-Recorded Reading: this is when you allow the child to listen to a recording of a book at their reading level for as many times as it takes for them to read the book on their own and as a fluent reader.
-Read-Aloud: reading to students is a great way to demonstrate what fluent reading sounds like. Also, they will be able to see the enjoyment and entertainment involved in reading. When they see how much they enjoy it, they are then motivated to read on their own.
There are many other great ways to practice fluency!
-Echo Reading
-Choral Reading
-Radio Reading
-Time Repeated Reading
-Partner Reading
1. Reading Rate: rate is apart of fluency but reading should not be a race. The reader just needs to be able to adjust your speed based on the difficulty of the text and the context of the text.
2. Accuracy: it is important for readers to be able to decode words automatically so that they are able to devote most of their mental energy to the meaning of the text rather than to decoding it. (Syllabic Analysis: is the process of dividing words into pronounceable units)
3. Prosody (Expression): this is the ability to compromises all the variables of timing, phrasing, emphasis and information that speakers use to help convey aspects of meaning. This is when the reader is reading out loud with feeling.
Strategies for Building Fluency:
-Re-reading: this is one of the best ways to develop fluency. First time they read their focus is on identifying the words. The second time will be more focused on putting the words together into meaningful units. The third time, the reader will be able to read the text automatically, with good expression and they will be able to focus on understanding the meaning behind the text.
-Recorded Reading: this is when you allow the child to listen to a recording of a book at their reading level for as many times as it takes for them to read the book on their own and as a fluent reader.
-Read-Aloud: reading to students is a great way to demonstrate what fluent reading sounds like. Also, they will be able to see the enjoyment and entertainment involved in reading. When they see how much they enjoy it, they are then motivated to read on their own.
There are many other great ways to practice fluency!
-Echo Reading
-Choral Reading
-Radio Reading
-Time Repeated Reading
-Partner Reading
Reference:
http://www.readingrockets.org/helping/target/fluency
http://www.readingrockets.org/teaching/reading101/fluency
http://www.readingrockets.org/helping/target/fluency
http://www.readingrockets.org/teaching/reading101/fluency