INVESTIGATING THE READING FLUENCY AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

Fluency in reading, which is defined as the capacity to read with rapidity, precision and in a proper manner is the most important element of a successful comprehension. The fluent reader reads smoothly and by using the correct phrasing and tonality which allows them to read and comprehend the content efficiently. Students struggling with fluency may have difficulties in decoding, and can read in a slow and fast, or abrasive style that could make reading difficult and decrease motivation to read. As they progress into the middle elementary, the need for fluency is becoming more important due to the increasing academic demands for reading. This article focuses on the three essential elements of fluency - rate as well as accuracy and prosody. The review stresses the importance of evaluating and enhancing these elements with targeted instruction. Even though fluency on its own doesn't guarantee understanding but it does provide a crucial base for understanding. Although it is difficult to assess provocation or expressive reading the test remains an important measure of the development of fluency. Teachers must determine the level of fluency in students with appropriate assessment and apply specific strategies that help develop and sustain fluency throughout grades.