Slowing Down for Tricky Parts

Change your speed when you reach a hard word or a new idea.

Even strong readers change speed. When you reach a long word or a part that is confusing, it is smart to slow down. Then speed back up when the reading gets easy again. Read: 'The tiny hummingbird flapped its wings very fast.

' You might slow down at 'hummingbird' to sound it out in parts: hum-ming-bird. Once you have it, go back to your normal pace for the rest. Slowing down is not a mistake. It is like a bike rider braking for a bumpy spot and then pedaling on.

• 1It is okay to slow down for hard parts.
• 2Break a long word into parts.
• 3Speed back up when the reading gets easy.