What should a student who scored below national ORF norms next assess?

When a student scores below national Oral Reading Fluency (ORF) norms, it is important to assess their phonics skills. Phonics is crucial for developing reading fluency because it involves understanding the relationships between letters and sounds. A solid grasp of phonics helps students decode words accurately and efficiently, which is essential for oral reading fluency.

By identifying any gaps in phonics, educators can implement targeted interventions to improve the student's reading abilities. While vocabulary and comprehension are also significant components of reading, the foundational skills provided by phonics are necessary for enhancing overall reading fluency. Addressing phonics first allows educators to build a strong base that supports other aspects of reading development effectively.