What purpose do chunked texts serve in reading instruction?

Chunked texts serve a crucial purpose in reading instruction by providing opportunities for practice in reading phrases fluently. This approach involves breaking down text into manageable phrases or segments, which helps students focus on the natural rhythm and flow of spoken language. By practicing with chunked texts, learners can improve their fluency, expression, and comprehension, as they are encouraged to read in larger units rather than individual words. Fluency is essential for developing proficient reading skills, as it allows students to increase their reading speed and understanding without getting bogged down by decoding every single word.

While chunked texts can certainly relate to formal assessments, compare texts, or help introduce new vocabulary, their primary function in the context of promoting reading fluency stands out the most. Focusing on how to read phrases smoothly helps build confidence and fosters a more enjoyable reading experience, ultimately supporting overall literacy development.