What is a benefit of using running records in reading assessment?

Using running records in reading assessment offers significant benefits, particularly in providing insights into students' reading strategies. Running records involve observing and recording a child's reading behavior as they read aloud, which allows educators to analyze how students approach reading tasks.

By keeping track of aspects such as fluency, word recognition, and self-correction, teachers can gather comprehensive data on a student's reading level and their application of various strategies, such as decoding skills or comprehension techniques. This information is invaluable for identifying specific areas where a student may need further support or instruction, enabling educators to tailor their teaching approaches to meet individual student needs.

This method of assessment goes beyond simple performance metrics, allowing for a deeper understanding of a student's reading process. It fosters a more dynamic view of reading development, as teachers can see how students interact with text rather than just the final outcome of their reading efforts.