Which of the following best describes fluency in reading?

Fluency in reading is best defined as the ability to read quickly and smoothly, which encompasses elements such as pacing, expression, and accuracy. This concept indicates a reader's capacity to process text effortlessly, allowing them to focus on comprehension rather than struggling with decoding individual words. Fluency typically involves reading aloud with an appropriate level of prosody, which contributes to overall understanding.

In contrast, the other descriptions focus on different skills related to literacy. Understanding complex texts refers more to comprehension and critical thinking skills rather than the speed or smoothness of reading. Writing lengthy essays emphasizes writing proficiency rather than reading fluency. Analyzing poetry involves interpretative skills and a deep understanding of literary devices, which again is separate from the mechanics of reading fluently. Thus, while all these skills are valuable in the broader context of literacy, the ability to read quickly and smoothly is the defining characteristic of reading fluency.