Reading Fluency Definition

Reading fluency indicates that a child can read successfully. Successful reading is defined as reading with accuracy and automaticity, with expression and proper speed and intonation. Children will not be able to comprehend text if they do not become fluent readers.

Proper Rate

A fluent reader will be able to read at an acceptable rate for comprehension. Reading that is rushed or slow and labored will leave the reader and listener confused and less likely to retain the information.

Accuracy

Fluent readers have the ability to decode (sound out) words as they read. They are able to do this without thinking about it because they have mastered the rules of phonics.

Expression

Fluency involves the reader's tone of voice. Fluent readers look ahead to the punctuation at the end of a sentence and adjust their voices accordingly. They also know if the punctuation dictates stopping or pausing when reading.

Flow of Reading

Reading smoothly is a major component of fluency. Reading that is choppy or monotone does not lend itself to comprehension. Listening to teachers model smooth reading helps a student improve this skill.

Importance

Fluency is the mastery of a culmination of phonological skills that includes letter recognition, decoding, phoneme segmentation and oral reading fluency. Fluency is a major determinant to a student's success in reading.

References

• Reading Fluency Information