READING FLUENCY AND COMPREHENSION
Difficulties Faced by Dyslexic Readers
Dyslexic readers struggle to achieve reading fluency because most of their intellectual capacity and energy are devoted to decoding words. This leads to less reading overall and a diminished interest in reading. Difficulties in language processing, memory, and reading comprehension often result in a more limited vocabulary.
What is Fluency?
Fluency can be defined as "reasonably accurate reading, at an appropriate (conversational) pace, with suitable expression, leading to understanding and motivation to read accurately" (Hasbrouck & Glaser, 2012, p. 13).
Meyer and Felton (1999) define fluency as "the ability to read text quickly, smoothly, effortlessly, and automatically with little conscious attention to the mechanics of reading, such as decoding" (p. 284).
Reading fluency is necessary for comprehension and expressive reading. It acts as a bridge between early and late reading phases. If this bridge is closed, access to the meaning of printed text and the pleasure of reading becomes limited.
It is Possible to Read Fluently Despite Dyslexia
Reading fluently with dyslexia is achievable with extra effort, practice, and persistence.
Important Considerations:
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To improve reading fluency and comprehension, one must read regularly.
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Listening to audiobooks facilitates learning but does not aid in reading practice.
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Daily reading practice, even for 15 to 20 minutes, can yield excellent long-term results.
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Manage breathing rhythm while reading and the anxiety it may cause. Slow down the reading pace and trust in your progress.
Tips to Improve Reading Fluency and Comprehension:
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Read Aloud: Helps with pronunciation and rhythm.
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Slow Down: Adjust the reading speed to a comfortable level.
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Pause and Reflect: After each paragraph, ask yourself if you understood what you read.
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Summarize: Retell what you read in your own words, one paragraph at a time.
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Identify Main Ideas: Extract the main idea from each paragraph.
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Expand Vocabulary: Improving vocabulary aids fluency and comprehension. Incorporate a new word daily. Make a list of words to learn and work on one each day. Try to use it in daily activities.
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Understand Words: If you encounter an unfamiliar word, look up its meaning and explore its structure (e.g., does it belong to a word family? Does it sound similar to another word?).
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Discover a Love for Reading: Connect with the thoughts, stories, and ideas of others through books.
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Progress Gradually: Celebrate each step forward.
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By following these tips and understanding the importance of consistent practice, individuals with dyslexia can significantly improve their reading fluency and comprehension.
Move forward step by step and celebrate each progress.