The term ‘fluency’ is used to describe a reader’s ability to read accurately, at an appropriate pace and with expression. Reading fluently helps children understand what they are reading. These tips can help you model fluent reading and help your child practice reading fluently.
Read accurately
- The words on the page should match the words you read.
- If you make an error, go back and correct it.
Read at an appropriate pace
- Don’t read too fast or too slow! You don’t want to sound like a robot or speed reader. Read in a smooth, talking voice.
- Come to a full stop at the end of every sentence.
- Pause when you come to a comma before the end of a sentence.
Read with expression
- Change your voice when characters are talking.
- Match your expression to the character’s personality.
- Use a deep voice for a scary character or a high pitched voice for a silly character.
- When a sentence ends in a question mark, change your voice to sound like you’re asking a question.
- When a sentence ends in an exclamation mark, match your expression to what is happening.
- Change your expression to match the mood of the story.
