Repeated Reading
Timed, repeated reading is a powerful strategy that assists fluency and confidence.
Reading fluency is one of the most important foundations of literacy. Reading fluency is not about reading fast, but it is the ability to read accurately, smoothly and with expression. When students struggle with fluency, comprehending the text is more difficult and confidence can drop.
Repeated reading is one of the most effective ways to improve fluency. It means reading the same passage several times with guidance, feedback and purpose.
It helps to build automaticity strengthening neural pathways, helping words become more familiar and easier to recognise.
With each repetition, students will become more natural and read smoothly while improving their comprehension of the text. When decoding becomes easier, students can focus on understanding the text. Repeated reading gives them multiple opportunities to notice details, make connections, and deepen understanding.
As students hear themselves reading more smoothly, they begin to see themselves as capable readers and this helps boost their confidence.
There are several important components of a successful Repeated Reading session.
Choose a passage that student can read with very few errors.
The passage should be readable in 1-2 minutes (50-200 words).
Model fluent reading of the passage.
Listen to the student read the passage and provide unknown words after three seconds.
Provide specific positive or corrective feedback to the student after each reading, mentioning accuracy, rate or expression.
Have the student read the passage at least four times.
Repeated reading is a part of every session I run, and I’ve seen firsthand how this simple practice can transform a child’s confidence and fluency.
