Which of the following would be least effective in improving fluency?

Racing to read a passage as quickly as possible may not effectively improve fluency because it places emphasis on speed rather than comprehension and expression. Fluency involves not just how fast a student reads, but also how well they can understand and convey the text's meaning. When students are focused on racing, they may rush through the material, sacrificing pronunciation, intonation, and pacing, which are essential components of fluent reading. This method could lead to poor reading habits and does not allow for practice of strategic reading skills that build confidence and proficiency.

In contrast, options like regular timed reading practice, reading aloud in pairs, and guided reading sessions provide opportunities for students to engage with the text meaningfully. These practices encourage them to develop their fluency through repetition, cooperative learning, and targeted support, facilitating a deeper understanding of the language and improving their overall reading skills.