Which organization highlighted fluency as a critical component of reading?

The National Reading Panel (NRP) is recognized for its comprehensive review of research related to reading instruction, which includes a significant emphasis on the role of fluency in reading. In its report, the NRP defined reading fluency as the ability to read quickly and accurately with proper expression, underscoring its importance as a bridge between word recognition and comprehension. By highlighting fluency, the NRP underscores that proficient reading is not only about recognizing words but also involves the rhythm and intonation that contribute to better understanding of the text.

In the context of reading development, fluency plays a crucial role because it allows readers to allocate their cognitive resources to comprehension rather than decoding individual words. This facilitation of smooth reading significantly impacts a learner's ability to understand and engage with the material, which is why the NRP places such importance on fluency in its findings and recommendations for effective reading instruction.