31. Stop the Robotic Reading – Building Fluency with MeQuel Bolden

In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by literacy coach and consultant MeQuel Bolden. With over a decade of classroom experience and a deep commitment to structured literacy, MeQuel shares insight into what reading fluency really is—and what it’s not.

We unpack common fluency misconceptions, dive into what’s happening in the brain when students become fluent, and share research-aligned strategies that move students from robotic to expressive, confident reading.

You’ll walk away with:

• A clear definition of fluency (hint: it’s not about speed)
• Practical tips to make fluency practice engaging and purposeful
• Ideas for fluency practice
• A reminder that fluency is for all ages, not just primary learners

Whether you’re just getting started with structured literacy or looking to strengthen fluency instruction in your small groups, this episode is packed with practical tools and encouragement to support your readers.

Resources Mentioned:

• Fluency FREEBIE from MeQuel Bolden
• The Mega Book of Fluency (2nd Edition) by Tim Rasinski & Melissa Cheesman
• Watch MeQuel Bolden’s Pre-Recorded Bonus Session: “Stop the Robotic Reading: 3 Strategies to Build Fluent Readers” for Science of Reading Mini-Con this July!

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Connect with MeQuel Bolden:

• Website: https://www.mequelbolden.com/
• Instagram: @mequelboldenconsulting
• LinkedIn: MeQuel Bolden

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