What is the role of fluency in reading development?

Fluency in reading development is best defined as the ability to read text with speed, accuracy, and expression. This skill is crucial because it allows readers to focus their cognitive resources on understanding the content, rather than struggling with how to sound out words. When students are fluent readers, they can swiftly navigate through texts, which enables better comprehension and enjoyment of reading. The combination of accurate recognition of words and appropriate pacing gives readers the opportunity to engage with the material more deeply, as they can allocate more attention to meaning and interpretation. Therefore, fluency plays an essential role in fostering overall reading development and comprehension skills in young learners.