In reading, what does fluency include?

Fluency in reading is a critical component of literacy that encompasses the ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression. This means that a fluent reader can quickly recognize words and phrases, read at an appropriate pace without unnecessary pauses, and convey the proper tone or mood of the text through their voice modulation and phrasing. This allows readers to focus their cognitive resources on comprehension, rather than struggling with decoding individual words.

While other aspects such as silent reading and comprehension are important in the overall reading process, they do not define fluency itself. Silent reading pertains to the ability to read without vocalizing, which is a different skill. Comprehension involves understanding the meaning of the text, which, although it is significantly enhanced by fluency, is not a characteristic of fluency itself. Reading multiple languages relates to bilingual or multilingual abilities, which is also a separate skill set from reading fluency in a single language. Thus, reading fluency specifically aligns with the aspects of speed, accuracy, and expression, emphasizing its importance in effective reading practices.