Strategies For Promoting Reading Fluency

Notes from class:


Reading fluency reflects not just accuracy, but also rate. It is estimated that students should reach the following levels of fluency at each grade level, measured in correct words per minute (CWM):

1st: 60
2nd: 70
3rd: 90
4th: 120
5th: 150


To promoted fluency here are a few suggestions:

Use repeated readings- Students who have struggled to learn to read a new passage should have the opportunity to reread the passage until fluent and effortless reading is achieved. As their familiarity of the passage increases, their fluency and comprehension should also increase. Record reading rates on a graph and indicate which passages are “repeated readings” and which are first-time readings. Set target rates (__ words per minute) and reward students for reaching these targets. Make sure to provide extra practice on difficult words or phrases that slow students’ rates. It is important that students have extra time spent in reading in order to develop their fluency skills.


Use curriculum based measurement (CBS)- Time students’ oral reading rates several days a week and chart their performance. Graphed reading rates will show students the rate at which they are improving in reading fluency. For example, have 100 word segments and graph the amount of time it takes the student to read it. You can also have 1 to 2 minute timed segments and graph the number of words the student reads correctly and incorrectly. For long term progress select several end-of-the-year passages and evaluate the reading rate throughout the year. CBM can help you keep track of student progress and let you know when students are falling behind.


Use classwide peer tutoring- When more time is spent in oral reading it can help develop fluency over time. Pair students off and have them take turns reading to each other will dramatically increase the amount of time students spend reading in class. You can also have the students do 1 or 2 minute timings.


Use software programs- Software for computers can also help students practice reading, decoding, and fluency-building activities. Many programs contain gamelike formats to entice students. Charlesbridge Reading Fluency (Charlesbridge) helps promote reading fluency and reading comprehension.