What are key indicators of a strong reader?

A strong reader is characterized by their ability to demonstrate both comprehension and fluency. Comprehension refers to the understanding of the text, which involves making connections, interpreting meanings, and grasping the main ideas and themes. Fluency, on the other hand, is the ability to read a text smoothly and quickly, with appropriate expression and pacing. When these two elements are combined, a reader not only recognizes words but fully engages with the content, leading to deeper knowledge and appreciation of the text. This combination enables stronger retention of information and a more enjoyable reading experience, as the reader can process the information effectively and relate it to their own experiences.

In contrast, the other options do not represent characteristics of a strong reader. Reading slowly without expression indicates a lack of fluency, which can hinder understanding. Focusing solely on individual words does not support comprehensive understanding of the text as a whole since it overlooks context and meaning. Relying on others to explain texts suggests a lack of independence in reading skills, which is essential for developing full literacy competency. Each of these factors emphasizes the importance of both comprehension and fluency as critical indicators of a strong reader.