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How to Increase First Grade Fluency

Fluency is the ability to read with acceptable speed and expression. From the Latin word, "to flow," fluency simply means speaking smoothly and effortlessly. An articulate child can see phrases and not read word for word. He can pay attention to making sense of what he is reading and not to the sounding of his words. To help your child increase fluency starting from first grade, read to him and let him read to you.

Instructions

    • 1

      Teach paired reading. The teacher picks a book that matches the reading level of the student. Sit in a quiet location and place the book so that both of you can clearly see the text. Start reading aloud simultaneously by pointing to each word while reading. If the student pronounced the word incorrectly, the teacher points to the word and pronounces it. This method can also be done by parents with the child at home.

    • 2

      Teach echo reading. Echo reading is the opposite of paired reading. Instead of reading aloud together, the teacher starts by reading out loud a passage alone, then the student echoes it immediately after. In this method, the teacher is modeling fluency and meaningful reading. The student, on the other hand, acquires confidence in reading aloud, which is hard to achieve when reading alone. Echo reading is useful in telling stories or reporting in front of a class.

    • 3

      Read and teach with repetition. This method is similar with echo reading, but the difference is the degree of repetition and the use of timing. The goal should be to read at a speed close to that of the teacher. The teacher starts with reading a section of the text, then the student reads after. The student repeats the reading until he is able to read at the specified time. Then proceed with the next passage. Audio tapes or compact discs with a fluent reader can be used in this method of reading.

    • 4

      Teach poetry and dramatic reading. Children enjoy poems and stories because of rhythms and intonation. Poetry reading involves repeated readings and oral communication. This can easily lead to fluency and memorization. Dramatic reading also involves repeated readings and passion, but the child does not need to memorize the exact dialogues. He might be allowed to read the script but allow timing and intensity. This method is a fun way to enjoy reading and developing fluency.

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