New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

Which component of fluent reading impacts understanding?

1. Speed alone

2. Phrasing and intonation

3. The number of words read

4. Length of the text

The correct answer is: Phrasing and intonation

Phrasing and intonation are crucial components of fluent reading because they help convey meaning and emotion within the text. When readers use appropriate phrasing, they group words into meaningful units, which enhances comprehension. Intonation, the variation in pitch and loudness during reading, also plays a significant role in signaling the structure and nuances of the text, such as questions or exclamations. By using these elements effectively, readers are more likely to grasp the underlying ideas, tone, and context of what they are reading, which deepens their understanding. In contrast, speed, the number of words read, and length of the text may influence reading fluency but do not directly enhance comprehension in the same way that phrasing and intonation do.