Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

What does fluency refer to?

1. Decoding words

2. Understanding and analyzing texts

3. Smoothness of speech

4. Recognizing high-frequency words

The correct answer is: Smoothness of speech

Fluency refers to the ability to read smoothly and with appropriate expression, which encompasses the natural rhythm and flow of speech. In the context of reading fluency, it means that a reader can read text accurately, quickly, and with proper intonation, much like how one would speak conversationally. This smoothness is essential for comprehension, as it allows the reader to focus more on understanding the text rather than decoding individual words. While decoding words and recognizing high-frequency words are important skills for developing reading ability, they contribute more to the foundational aspects of reading rather than fluency itself. Moreover, understanding and analyzing texts focuses more on comprehension skills rather than the fluency aspect of reading.