It is very typical to see children who are just beginning to read not be fluent. However, several ways and approaches can help them develop fluency in the way they read, one of which is reading aloud in class. Keeping classroom instructions in mind, here are two methods that will help develop fluency. 

Direct Method 

This approach calls for repeated reading, where the child must reread the same text until they can read through it fluently. However, this approach is only ideal for readers who can comprehend primary-level instructions. 

For the direct method, use text with a hundred words. Keep in mind that this should not be predictable but should be decodable. Here are two ways to measure how effective this approach was.

Graph Reading Speed

To set a baseline, you can graph your students’ reading speed, that is, how many words they read in a minute. Then, set an attainable goal for each student and emphasize speed instead of accuracy. 

This is not only an effective way to measure the impact of the direct method but is also known to be quite motivating as students can see themselves making progress. 

Check Sheets 

This way is excellent for when you’re breaking the class up into pairs for reading. So, using check sheets, ask the pair of students to take turns listening and reading. The reader can read the passage three times, and the listener can report after the reader has read all three times. Keep in mind that the listener should not be criticizing the reader. 

Indirect Method 

The indirect method calls for voluntary reading, where students are given regular opportunities to read. Each day, a period will be dedicated to reading where students can choose magazines or books of their choice. There should be no interruptions or expectations from students to report on what they read during this time. 

This is because interruptions during reading can lead to a loss of interest. If done correctly, the indirect method is known to help students develop a positive attitude towards reading. 

Concluding Thoughts

Apart from that, you can sprinkle in some other approaches, such as making sure that the school library has plenty of books that the students would be interested in. You should also be encouraging the students to read not just the classics, but page-turners too. 

Always keep in mind that the goal is to help the novice reader to develop fluency, which is why, in this case, always choose quantity over quality.