How does oral reading support literacy development?

Oral reading significantly enhances literacy development by building fluency, confidence, and comprehension in students. When students engage in oral reading, they practice their pronunciation, pacing, and expression, which contribute to fluency. Fluent readers can read with speed and accuracy, allowing them to focus on understanding the text rather than struggling with word recognition.

Additionally, oral reading fosters confidence. As students become more comfortable with sounding out words and reading aloud, they gain assurance in their reading abilities, making them more willing to participate in discussions about the text. This increased confidence can lead to greater engagement with reading material overall.

Moreover, oral reading enhances comprehension. When students read aloud, they are more likely to process the content deeply, as they need to pay attention to phrasing and intonation. This process encourages active engagement with the text, helping them to better understand and remember what they have read. Overall, oral reading serves as a foundational practice that supports comprehensive literacy skills, vital for students' academic growth and success.