Fluency refers to the ability to read with accuracy, speed, and prosody. Which statement best describes fluency?

• A. Reading with accuracy, speed, and prosody
• B. Only decoding words
• C. Only vocabulary knowledge
• D. Neglects comprehension

Answer: (A)

Fluency is the ability to read with accuracy, speed, and prosody. That means a fluent reader recognizes words correctly, reads at a pace that doesn’t trap the meaning, and uses expression, phrasing, and intonation that reflect the text and punctuation. This combination helps readers grasp meaning more easily because it frees cognitive effort from decoding words and allows attention to comprehension and interpretation.

If a statement only mentions decoding words, it misses the speed and expression that fluency requires. If it only mentions vocabulary knowledge, it’s describing knowledge of word meanings, not the act of reading smoothly with expression. Saying fluency neglects comprehension is incorrect because fluent reading actually supports understanding by making text easier to process.