What primary skill should a teacher focus on for students struggling with reading fluency?

Focusing on decoding and phonics skills is crucial for students who are struggling with reading fluency because these skills form the foundation for effective reading. Decoding involves the ability to translate written words into spoken language by recognizing letter-sound correspondences, which is essential for reading unfamiliar words. When students master phonics skills, they become more proficient in recognizing word patterns and can improve their reading speed and accuracy.

As students strengthen their decoding and phonics abilities, they are likely to experience less difficulty in reading aloud, which contributes to overall fluency. Fluency is not solely about reading quickly; it also encompasses reading with proper expression, pacing, and understanding the text. By honing these foundational skills, students can enhance their ability to read smoothly, ultimately leading to better comprehension and enjoyment of reading.