How does building vocabulary contribute to reading fluency?

Building vocabulary contributes significantly to reading fluency primarily by enhancing rhythm and speed in reading. When students have a strong vocabulary, they are more likely to recognize words quickly and accurately, allowing them to focus on comprehension rather than decoding individual words. This fluency enables them to read with greater expression and pace, as they are not pausing frequently to figure out the meaning of unknown words.

A well-developed vocabulary allows readers to grasp the context of the text more rapidly, leading to smoother and more confident reading. This fluency is essential for deeper understanding and engagement with the material, thus making vocabulary building an integral part of developing reading skills.