Improving Students' Reading Fluency through the Use of Phonics and Word Recognition Strategies

This study describes a program designed to improve student reading fluency. The targeted population consisted of first and third grade students in a growing urban community in the Midwest. Evidence for the existence of the problem included standardized test scores and independent computer reports that measured academic achievement, phonic assessments that measured phonemic awareness, reading assessments that measured fluency, a parent survey to determine home literacy experiences, anecdotal records and observations to measure student growth, and portfolios to display student achievement. Analysis of probable causes was evidenced by teachers' observations of students' inability to read fluently and sound out new words. Teachers reported that students could not spell well or recognize common vocabulary. Students displayed low levels of recreational reading. A review of solution strategies suggested by cited authors, combined with an analysis of the problem setting, resulted in the selection of four categories of intervention: Instruction in decoding skills to increase students' ability to sound out or recognize new words; use of a traveling book program to enhance recreational reading; practice with sight words to improve student vocabulary; and read orally to improve fluency. Post intervention data indicated an increase in student phonemic awareness, an improvement in home literacy experiences, an increase in student vocabulary, and an advancement of student fluency levels. The researchers recommend using reading instruction that develops phonemic awareness, sight word drills that practice grade appropriate vocabulary, and reading activities that promote family involvement. (Contains 24 references, 5 tables, and 5 figures of data. Appendixes contain fluency charts, word lists, first and third grade developmental screening instruments; survey instruments; sample lessons and games; checklists; charts; record sheets; and a sample book bag journal page.) (Author/RS)