. With that in mind, > what are some of the best "research-based, highly successful" strategies > that work with fluency? Just want to pick your brain. Amy >
Well, I think showing a connection between spoken language and reading in your head helps. When the kids realize that the typical speaker speaks about 150-200 words a minute, then they should be able to hear the voice in their head reading at close to that speed (which remarkably is the speed typical for later elementary and middle grades). Too many teachers want them to slow down for phonetic reading, when for comprehension reading they need to read faster. I've had many teachers tell me that repeated reading for fluency is a waste of time, but when I explain to them WHY fluency works, they seem to understand. Also, get away from the monotone "I......willl......not......eat......green......eggs......" Tell them to pretend they are the characters, play with the words, read them joyfully and with fun. I find even with my middle school students that when they read with meaning, their fluency speeds go up... Bill _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list Mosaic@literacyworkshop.org To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive.