Reading passages in today’s schools are timed to increase a student’s fluency. Also, according to studies, timed tests improve competency. Scholars state that fluency is a critical component to be proficient in reading.
Reading fluency is a skill strengthened by timing a student’s passage reading. The process helps students read smoothly with little stoppage for decoding words. A goal of timed reading is to raise the student’s reading level and progression in a chosen selection.
Students enjoy reading as they develop the ability to understand what they read. Reading fluency helps this process. As students becomes more fluent, they comprehend the information faster.
What Exactly Is a Timed Test
Students read orally for 60-seconds. They read as fast a they can, with correct or incorrect pronunciation of words. Also, it is acceptable for students to skip unknown words or guess pronunciations. The concern is only speed.
In addition, a timed oral reading test causes frustration or stress for some students. In turn, it causes anxiety.
Reading Silently
Measuring a student’s silent reading is more difficult. Silent reading fluency is important. Because, it is the way most students read. However, in an oral timed test students are likely to fake reading the passage. Therefore, a discrepancy in oral and silent reading occurs.
Types
No matter the type of timed test, most students endure the process. But, the struggling reader faces a difficult time. Not all students learn the same way or at the same time. Struggling students need one-on-one instructor time to master the skill of fluent reading. Also, they need decoding skills,
Teachers and parents must focus on reading skills to help students understand what they read. Students need not stress over the memorization of words or speed in finishing a passage. It is best they learn to read with meaning as well as fluency. The process is still about the learning. And, faster is not always better.
