Comprehension, or the ability to decode the meaning of the words, is the cornerstone of reading fluency. According to N. Mather and Sam Goldstein in "Reading Fluency" on the website LD Online, "Children are successful with decoding when the process used to identify words is fast and nearly effortless or automatic". As a child's vocabulary expands, he will recognize more words on sight without having to stop and think about what they mean or having to sound them out to recognize them.
As the child's vocabulary grows and she recognizes more words by sight, her speed will increase. Being able to read more quickly helps the reader to concentrate on the overall meaning of phrases or sentences rather than individual words. Reading becomes a fluid, smooth activity that can be practised silently.
Children demonstrate reading fluency by being able to read aloud, pronouncing the words correctly and reading in a smooth, unbroken manner. They are able to give expression to what they read, which further demonstrates their understanding of the material. To help students who are nervous about reading aloud, the teacher can have students in the class read aloud together to help with this process.
Parents and teachers can read aloud to children, demonstrating reading fluency for them. Daily exposure will help children to learn words by sight. Teachers can also time a student's reading and then encourage the student to follow along as the teacher reads more quickly. Repetitious reading can increase speed.
Choose favorite stories but vary the material to include fiction, nonfiction and poetry. Model for the students the idea of changing the speed at which they read to fit the material being read. Set aside time every day for students to read material they choose and encourage them to discuss the information, without requiring formal book reports. Have plenty of books available for students and schedule trips to the library.