Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

How does reading fluency specifically benefit the comprehension of non-fiction texts?

1. By focusing on grammar accuracy

2. By providing practice with word decoding

3. By freeing working memory to focus on comprehension

4. By increasing reading speed

The correct answer is: By freeing working memory to focus on comprehension

Reading fluency mainly enhances comprehension of non-fiction texts by allowing the reader to engage more fully with the material. When a reader can read fluently, they do not need to concentrate heavily on decoding each word or figuring out the structure of the text. This ease of reading means that their working memory, which is often limited, can focus more on understanding the ideas, arguments, or concepts presented in the non-fiction material. In non-fiction texts, which often include complex information and varied structures, the ability to grasp the meaning quickly is crucial. By freeing up cognitive resources that would otherwise be used for decoding, fluent readers can synthesize information, make connections, and draw inferences, thus enhancing their overall comprehension. Other options, while they may touch on aspects of reading skills, do not directly address the unique benefits that fluency provides in relation to understanding complex texts. Focusing on grammar accuracy and increasing reading speed can be important, but they do not specifically facilitate comprehension to the same extent that fluency does. Also, practicing with word decoding is essential for developing reading skills but is a step that supports fluency rather than being a direct benefit of it.