Which is more important reading fluency or comprehension?

It's impossible to say definitively which is more important: reading fluency or comprehension. They are intertwined and mutually dependent.

Here's why:

Reading fluency:

* Benefits comprehension: Smooth, accurate reading allows the reader to focus on meaning rather than decoding words. It also helps them to process information faster and hold it in working memory.

* Can hinder comprehension: If a reader struggles with fluency, they may become frustrated, lose focus, and miss important details. They may also focus too much on decoding, which can make it hard to understand the text as a whole.

Reading comprehension:

* Depends on fluency: If a reader can't decode words accurately and quickly, they will struggle to understand the text.

* Impacts fluency: Comprehension strategies, like predicting and making connections, can actually improve fluency. When readers have a good understanding of the text, they are more likely to read smoothly and accurately.

In essence:

* Fluency is the foundation: It allows for efficient and accurate reading, which is crucial for comprehension.

* Comprehension is the goal: It's the ultimate purpose of reading, and it builds upon fluency.

Therefore, both fluency and comprehension are essential for effective reading. Teaching and learning should focus on developing both skills in tandem.