Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA) Practice Exam

What characterizes fluent reading?

1. Reading slowly and carefully

2. Reading with precise pronunciation only

3. Reading accurately and at a natural pace

4. Reading aloud with minimal expression

The correct answer is: Reading accurately and at a natural pace

Fluent reading is characterized by the ability to read accurately and at a natural pace, which allows for better comprehension and enjoyment of the text. This type of reading indicates that the reader has developed a great deal of proficiency with decoding words, which contributes to their ability to focus on the meaning rather than getting caught up on individual words. Fluency encompasses both speed and accuracy, meaning that readers can smoothly navigate through the text without significant pauses or errors while maintaining the flow that reflects the natural rhythms of speech. This fluidity not only enhances the reader's understanding but also typically involves some level of expression, which may be less evident in options that focus on slower or more mechanical reading patterns. In contrast, reading slowly and carefully or focusing solely on precise pronunciation can hinder fluency as they often lead to interruptions in the reading flow. Similarly, reading aloud with minimal expression lacks the natural engagement and comprehension that characterize fluent reading, as it doesn't demonstrate the reader's ability to interpret and convey the nuances of the text effectively.