Reading Lesson Idea: Phrase Reading for Fluency
Description
Phrase reading is a technique that builds fluency,
aids comprehension, and improves oral reading. Phrase reading can also be used to teach
grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.
This type of activity should be a regular part of the reading lesson for non-fluent
readers.
Adapted from a 2003 COABE presentation by the Anchorage Literacy Project.
Materials
Choose a reading that is of interest and at the appropriate level.
Lined paper on which to write the phrases.
A ruler or some other type of pointer.
Suggestions
Prior to the tutoring session, choose 5 to 7 phrases from the session’s text:
Pick phrases (no longer than 6 words) that answer who, what, where, when, why, how questions.
Phrases chosen could also illustrate such teaching points as verb tense, punctuation, particular vocabulary, grammar point, etc.
Print the phrases neatly on a lined piece of paper, and use it with
this 4-step process:
Read and underscore each phrase. Student repeats. Discuss any particular teaching point.
Read a randomly chosen phrase. Student locates phrase and reads it. If phrase is read correctly,
tutor rereads it. Tutor’s silence cues student to self-correct and reread.
Repeat process for all phrases.
For the next repetition, give the student a clue to find a particular phrase.
For example, “Find the phrase that tells where.”
Student locates and underscores phrase, then reads it. Tutor repeats phrase if correct.
Beginning with the last sentence, student reads and underscores each phrase.
Tutor repeats phrase if correct.
After practicing these phrases, read and discuss the entire selection together.
Check Teaching Adults , pp. 51-54, for other activities to promote fluency.