What does "reading fluency" include?

Reading fluency encompasses several integral components that contribute to a reader's overall ability to read smoothly and effectively. The correct choice reflects that reading fluency includes speed, accuracy, and expression when reading aloud.

Speed refers to how quickly a reader can read text, while accuracy involves reading the words correctly without mistakes. Expression, or prosody, includes the appropriate use of intonation, rhythm, and phrasing, which helps convey meaning and engages the reader’s audience. These elements work together to support comprehension, as a fluent reader can focus more on understanding the content rather than decoding individual words.

The other options do not capture the full scope of reading fluency. Focusing only on speed misses the critical importance of accuracy and expression. Reciting text from memory is not a defining characteristic of reading fluency, as it does not necessarily include the ability to interpret or understand the text. While understanding vocabulary and meaning is essential for overall reading comprehension, it is separate from the mechanics of fluency, which specifically pertains to how smoothly and effectively a text is read aloud.