Fluency

In this section, you will find information & resources to support fluency routines.

Fluency is the ability to read text accurately, at an appropriate pace, with expression. It is the bridge between word recognition and comprehension.

Related Curriculum Expectations:

*Includes all decoding expectations plus:

Grade 1: B2.8 -read simple words, short sentences, and paragraphs in a variety of texts fluently, with accuracy and appropriate pacing to support comprehension, and read aloud with expression

Grade 2: B2.5 -read words, sentences, and paragraphs in a variety of texts fluently, with accuracy and appropriate pacing to support comprehension, and read aloud with expression and intonation

Grade 3: B2.5 -read words, complex sentences, and paragraphs in a variety of texts fluently, with accuracy and appropriate pacing to support comprehension, and read aloud using varied expression and intonation according to the purpose of reading

Grade 4 - Grade 8: B2.3 -read a variety of texts fluently, with accuracy and appropriate pacing to support comprehension, and when reading aloud, adjust expression and intonation according to the purpose of reading

Fluency Routines

This section provides information and links to resources for supporting reading fluency.
Fluency starts with decoding accurately and must include using decodable books in the early years.

Fluency reading routines are structured activities designed to improve students' reading speed, accuracy, and expression, ultimately enhancing their comprehension. These routines often involve repeated readings of the same text, modeling fluent reading, and partner or choral reading activities. Check out this resource for more ideas.

Text selection and supports:

For K-2 (Kindergarten to Grade 2)

Focus on decodable texts and simple picture books that reinforce phonics patterns students have learned. Gradually introduce slightly more complex texts as students' proficiency increases.
Be ready to assist students frequently, especially in the initial stages. Monitor closely to ensure students are on task and understanding the process.
A student should not start paired fluency reading until they have a handle on the kinds of words on the first few text levels and how to blend words reliably.

For Grades 3-6

Text Selection:

Use more authentic texts, including class texts, novels, and passages related to other subjects, knowledge-rich units, and interest-based texts. Consider the complexity of vocabulary and content.
Paired reading sessions can be more autonomous. Incorporate more challenging texts to develop comprehension and fluency simultaneously. Encourage students to engage in discussions about the text to deepen understanding.
See the Reading Reconsidered technique: Accountable Independent Reading

Click here for more information about fluency routines.

Click here to visit the Assessment page.

This fluency rubric is designed to assess a student's oral reading performance across four key areas: Expression and Volume, Phrasing, Smoothness, and Pace. This rubric is adapted from Tim Rasinski’s work on developing fluent readers.

This infographic provides easy to follow steps for integrating partner reading routines into your classroom.

This edition of the Lens on Literacy newsletter contains ideas for supporting reading fluency across the grades.

Chapter 6

Chapter 3

Many of the ideas in this section come from these two books. Please contact Tanya Vincze if you would like a copy.

Reader’s Theatre is a fun way for building reading fluency. Click here to access some Reader’s Theatre scripts.

Decodable Books

This section offers supports and resources for using decodable texts in the classroom.
Decodable texts are specifically designed for beginning readers to practice and apply the phonics skills that have already been taught.
They allow targeted, purposeful practice to build reading fluency and should align with your phonics scope and sequence.
In this section, you will find links to instructional routines (including “how to” video), tracking sheets, texts, and more!
Below, are links to some additional decodable texts for supporting reading fluency in our classrooms and at home. All schools also have access to physical decodable books.

Decodable Texts- English