How does fluency affect reading comprehension?

Fluency significantly impacts reading comprehension because it enables readers to process text more efficiently. When students read with high fluency, they can recognize words quickly and effortlessly, which reduces the cognitive load involved in decoding each word. This proficiency allows them to focus more on the meaning of the text rather than on the mechanics of reading. As a result, they have more cognitive resources available to engage with the content, make connections, and think critically about what they are reading.

In contrast, if fluency is low, students may struggle with decoding, which can detract from their ability to comprehend the material. They may become so preoccupied with figuring out words that they miss the overall message or the nuances of the text. Thus, fluency is a vital component of effective reading comprehension, fostering a more profound understanding and enabling students to connect ideas and themes effectively.