Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Improving Reading Fluency, Part 2


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Last Wednesday’s Parent Post, Improving Reading Fluency, Part 1, began our investigation of reading fluency. This week’s post continues this topic, with a heavier tech slant. The important thing to remember is whatever you choose to try, keep it light. I’d hate to think that anything I suggested detracts from your family fun!
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Audio Books
As I’ve said before, I’m a big fan of audio books. They’re good for vocabulary development and increasing enjoyment of books. They’re also great for developing fluency. Some reasons and ways to use audio books:
  • Many librarians and teachers are women. Audio books allow boys to hear male narrators as role models.
  • Audio books provide models of good reading, pacing and expression.
  • Have your child listen to an audio book first and then have him read the text on his own, either to himself or aloud.
  • Audio book readers are usually trained actors. Model trying to read aloud like the audio book reader. Encourage your child to do the same. Keep it fun!
  • Have your child listen to the audio book while he or she follows along with an unabridged (important!) copy of the book.
  • Consider making your own audio books of favorite stories. Family members can read different parts. Ham it up!
  • If your child has been identified as having a learning disability or dyslexia, taped books are available from Recordings for the Blind & Dyslexic (RFB&D).
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People Reading Activity
I love this idea! Check out http://www.readingresource.net/readingfluencyactivities.html for other ideas.
Print the People Reading cards.
Click on the following links to print off these short phrases:
Reader 1 chooses a People card and a short fluency phrase card. She must read the short phrase to represent the person that was drawn. Take turns. Variation: players try to guess what People card the reader chose.
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Robot Reader
This site is not free, but is one I would have been interested in as a teacher and probably as a parent. I like games that help you practice skills and the sheer volume of games offered here appeals to me. I’d love to hear your take on this program if you try it out.
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Resources used for this post:
LD Online
ReadingResource.net
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic
Robot Reader
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Please share any fluency ideas you've tried!
Gail
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