Fluency and Stamina: What’s the Connection?

Why do we at the Learning Lab care so much about fluency? When students read with fluency appropriate for their grade level, they are able to read and understand grade-level material in a shorter amount of time. This time saved can make a big impact on students’ stamina, allowing them to continue to read longer and more complex texts. For instance, a student who previously needed two hours to complete a reading assignment will complete the same assignment in less time and with less frustration. That student may then have time for social activities, playtime or even sleep (which is in especially short supply for teenagers)!