Repeated readings are a common, recommended practice for beginning readers. A study compared the gains made by high level and low level ability first grade readers in reading fluency. An initial reading of text at a second grade reading level was audiotaped and analyzed for rate and accuracy. This was followed by four readings, including a read-aloud, listening to an audiotape while reading, and a partner reading. Subjects were again audiotaped reading the text. High level ability readers made significantly higher gains in fluency than did the low level ability readers. Findings suggest that low level ability readers need direct instruction in word recognition or phonics in addition to repeated readings. (Contains 47 references and a table of data. Appendixes present 2 tables of data.) (Author/RS)