Which instructional method is enhanced by "echo reading"?

Echo reading is an instructional strategy that primarily enhances fluency and confidence in reading. This technique involves a teacher or proficient reader modeling the reading of a text, after which students are encouraged to repeat the reading, "echoing" the teacher’s voice and phrasing. This process helps students to develop smoother, more fluent reading since they practice the rhythm, intonation, and expression of reading right after hearing it.

By participating in echo reading, students gain the opportunity to build their reading fluency as they are able to hear and then mimic fluent reading patterns. It also allows for immediate feedback and correction from the teacher, which promotes confidence as students become more comfortable with the text and their own reading abilities. As they practice regularly, they often see improvements not only in fluency but also in their overall attitude toward reading.

While echo reading may have positive effects on other aspects of reading, such as phonetic awareness or comprehension, its most direct and significant impact lies in enhancing fluency and building students' confidence. This understanding is crucial for developing effective reading instruction strategies.