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 * Please note when we do our fluency checks we would like the students to read at a "normal" pace. We do not want them to rush through the text. I tell my students that I want to hear them read at the same speed that they talk. In a fluency check, and anytime they are reading, I expect them to pay attention to the punctuation, pausing when necessary and at the beginning of each sentence.

Fluency Levels 9.24.08

Parents:

Recently the specialists in the building and myself did a fluency measure with the students. Research shows that the more fluent a reader is, the more comprehension he or she has. This is because the less they are thinking about how to pronounce/sound out the words; the more they are able to think about what they are reading. This research stems from Penn State University and has proven to be true through studies here at Brecknock as well. I would like to emphasize that when fluency tests are given we are not looking at comprehension at all. Comprehension is measured with a different type of test; this is simply for oral reading fluency. If you have any questions about fluency please contact me via phone, e-mail or a note.


 * If you would like some tips on helping to improve reading fluency, just write a note in the homework agenda and I will be more than happy to send some ideas home. Thank You.

The beginning-of-the-year benchmark is 77 words per minute (wpm), mid-year 93wpm, and the end of the year benchmark is 110wpm.

~Mrs. Libell

Resource Website with Parent/Teacher Tips:

http://www.ves.wpsb.org/focus/ways%20to%20help.html (*available in print upon request)