Erik Said:

How can you implement...phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension in reading?

We Answered:

Phonemic awareness preferably needs to be started before starting a phonics or reading programme. If working with esl children vocab can be enlarged when teaching phonics and word blending. Comprehension which ideally would include listening comprehension should start with the first time a story is read or instructions are given. Fluency should not be confused with a child being able to recite a book or reader because they have been forced to read and reread it a million times.

Claude Said:

What is my fluency level in Spanish?

We Answered:

I'd say between 7-8, maybe 9, but I'm no Spanish professor. Good for you, you are definitely at a much higher level than I am; after three years of studying it, it wouldn't be surprising for you to be semi- or almost fluent.

I'm learning Spanish right now and I enjoy the language a lot; in fact, I'm considering minoring in it when I transfer to a 4-year college next fall (my major is English). I started courses back in March, and I'm almost done with my second term of it; I feel like I'm picking it up decently. I bought a Pablo Neruda poetry collection the other day, and, with a little help desde mi diccionario, I am able to understand the poems. Languages are so fun, aren't they?!

Linda Said:

Question about helping a 5th grader improve his fluency skills in reading?

We Answered:

along with what the others have suggested why don't you try having him read into a tape recorder so he can hear how he sounds. Not pausing for commas and periods make a big difference and if he can hear himself he should be more conscious of where he needs to improve.