The best reading programs address all five of the domains shown on the graphic below. Below each pillar are the grade levels that have associated TEKS. Notice that fluency instruction begins in First Grade and continues through Eighth Grade. Fluency refers to much more than quick reading. Rate is only one part of the fluency puzzle; please do not overemphasize speed without addressing the other domains of fluency, as outlined by Fountas and Pinnell: pausing - pausing at appropriate points phrasing - breaking the text up into meaningful chunks intonation/rhythm - voice goes up and down at appropriate times stress - some words are said slightly louder for emphasis rate - reading at an appropriate pace, which varies as needed; not too fast and not too slow integration - using the other 7 dimensions together I do not advocate measuring reading rate before level J in guided read...
