Too often, reading fl uency has been equated with speed, with assessment taking the form of timed cold readings or even nonsense syllables. Enter reading expert Michael Opitz, with a fresh look at fl uency that dispels the myths and misinformation and replaces it with clear steps to help you explore and understand the role of fl uency in supporting students who read with appropriate speed, accuracy, expression and comprehension. Much of the confusion surrounding fl uency stems from conflicting claims about how to assess it. With Opitz's expert guidance, teachers will be assured that they're equipped to make reliable professional judgments about how fluently students read. And once those assessments are made, Opitz's step-by-step plan lays out an array of instructional options. Invitations to reflection at the end of each chapter are ideal for professional learning communities interested in fluency.
Dr. Michael F. Opitz, professor of elementary education and reading at the University of Northern Colorado, is a former elementary teacher and reading specialist. His numerous published books include Flexible Grouping in Reading and Good-bye Round Robin: 25 Effective Oral Reading Strategies (with Tim Rasinski).