What is described as reading that is accurate, at a natural pace, and mimics speech in phrasing and expressiveness?

Fluent reading is characterized by the ability to read text accurately, at a natural pace, and with appropriate phrasing and expressiveness. This type of reading demonstrates a high level of reading proficiency, where the reader is able to decode the words quickly and with comprehension, allowing for smooth and meaningful expression as if they were speaking.

Fluency in reading is essential as it aids in understanding and helps students engage more deeply with the text. When a reader is fluent, they often can focus more on the content of what they are reading rather than struggling with the mechanics of reading itself. This capability fosters better retention and enjoyment of the material, which is a key goal in literacy development.

Choral reading, echo reading, and paired reading, while beneficial for practicing reading skills, focus on different aspects of literacy and do not encapsulate the definition of fluent reading as accurately. Choral reading involves a group of students reading together, echo reading involves students repeating after a model reader, and paired reading includes two students reading together, often with one assisting the other. While these methods can support fluency, they do not specifically define the characteristics of fluent reading.