Fluency—often described as the bridge between decoding, language comprehension, and reading comprehension—is often an overlooked component of reading instruction. Although fluency is frequently assessed, it is rarely taught explicitly. Grounded in the understanding that access to grade level texts is essential for equitable learning opportunities, this session explores how purposeful scaffolding supports all students, including multilingual learners, in engaging meaningfully with complex texts. Participants will examine the evidence-based Fluency Development Lesson and learn how fluency instruction functions as the scaffolding that supports students’ access to grade level texts, closes reading gaps, and fosters the joy of reading for all learners.
