Readers' theater is a powerful tool for developing reading fluency. Fluency is the ability to read quickly and accurately while using expression and proper phrasing. Fluent readers group words together in meaningful ways as they read. As readers improve fluency, they are able to focus on the meaning of the words they are reading--thus improving comprehension.

A variety of scripts are provided to meet a range of reading levels. Students have opportunities to read individually, in pairs, and as a group. The scripts do not require costumes, props, or scenery.

The activities target standards in these areas:

• the reading process
• context clues
• reading fluency
• summarization and paraphrasing