Which of the following is an effective assessment method for reading skills?

Running records are an effective assessment method for reading skills because they provide a detailed and systematic way to evaluate a student's reading abilities. This approach enables educators to observe how students read aloud, capturing important data such as their fluency, accuracy, and comprehension. During a running record, the teacher takes notes on the student's reading behaviors, including errors and self-corrections, which can then be analyzed to identify specific strengths and areas for improvement.

By utilizing running records, teachers can tailor their instruction to meet the individual needs of each student, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with their reading level. This method not only aids in monitoring progress over time but also allows for differentiated instruction, which is crucial for effective literacy teaching. In sum, running records are beneficial because they provide concrete evidence of a student's reading performance, enabling targeted interventions and support.