Reading Assessment Tips: Measuring Accuracy and Fluency

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While reading this article, I couldn't help but think about the comprehension piece of reading. Although determining accuracy, self-correcting, and fluency are all important skills, I also think that comprehension is equally (or more) critical. My belief comes from experience. I have met many students who can read every word in the dictionary with perfect inflection, yet struggle to make inferences. On the other hand, I know students who I have painfully listened to read aloud, yet can tell me every detail (especially ELL students). So here is the dilemma: are you holding back a student if they cannot read fluently, yet can comprehend?


It isn't until the last paragraph that the author brings up the comprehension piece. She states: "It has been my experience that a student reading a text accurately and fluently either understands the text or is reading at a good level for instruction in how to comprehend the text." So, although this doesn't really answer my question, it does reiterate that a student's accuracy and fluency is important while determining their independent and instructional reading level.