What is defined as the ability to read quickly, accurately, and with proper pronunciation?

Fluency is defined as the ability to read quickly, accurately, and with proper pronunciation. This skill encompasses not just the ability to recognize words, but also the ability to read them in a smooth and expressive manner, which is essential for understanding the text being read. Fluent readers can focus their cognitive resources on comprehension rather than decoding individual words, allowing them to grasp the meaning of the text more effectively. This skill is fundamental in the development of reading proficiency, making it a critical area of focus in education.

Comprehension refers to the understanding of what is read, which is distinct from fluency as it involves processing and deriving meaning from text. Phonics relates to the relationship between sounds and their corresponding letters, a vital skill for early readers but not the same as fluency. Vocabulary pertains to the words that one knows and understands, which can influence reading comprehension but does not directly define the ability to read with speed and accuracy.