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 purposefulIdeas for fluency practiceA reminder that fluency is for all ages, not just primary learnersWhether 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 BoldenThe Mega Book of Fluency (2nd Edition) by Tim Rasinski & Melissa CheesmanWatch 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!This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast!Connect with MeQuel Bolden:Website: https://www.mequelbolden.com/Instagram: @mequelboldenconsultingLinkedIn: MeQuel BoldenConnect with Michelle:Follow me on Instagram: @michelle_thecolorfulclassroom & @logosliteracyacademyJoin our Facebook CommunitySign up for my NewsletterShop on TPT: The Colorful ClassroomVisit: www.michelleandthecolorfulclassroom.comJoin The COLORFUL Literacy Toolkit MembershipWant to Support the Podcast?Make a Donation to Support ProductionInterested in Learning More about Morphology?Logos Literacy AcademyCourse 1: Mastering Morphology: Foundations for Every EducatorCourse 2 & Curriculum: K-2 MorphologyMonthly Coaching Calls: Logos LiveMentioned in this episode:SOR Summer Book StudyJoin us: https://colorful-classroom.mykajabi.com/sor-summer-book-study-2026Reading Science AcademyGet your FREE grouping resource bundle here: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/groupingsheets?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=podcast Join The Reading Science Academy: https://www.stephaniestollarconsulting.com/register?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=literacy-in-color