What is an essential characteristic of fluency in reading?

Fluency in reading is fundamentally characterized by the ability to read smoothly, quickly, and with a high level of accuracy. This means that a fluent reader can recognize words effortlessly, which enhances comprehension because the reader can focus on understanding the meaning of the text rather than on decoding individual words. Speed indicates that the reader can process text at an appropriate pace, while accuracy ensures that the meaning is conveyed correctly without frequent errors.

Being fluent also involves the ability to read with expression and appropriate intonation, which contributes to engaging with the text. While the other options might touch on aspects of reading, they do not encapsulate the comprehensive characteristic of fluency. For instance, reading in a monotone voice doesn’t relay the emotional nuances of the text, and focusing solely on punctuation does not take into account the rhythm and flow that comes with fluency. Therefore, reading with speed and accuracy is indeed the essential characteristic that defines fluency in reading.