What is the purpose of a running record in reading assessment?

A running record serves as an important tool in reading assessment primarily by allowing educators to document and analyze a child's reading behaviors, which includes marking miscues as they read. This process enables teachers to observe the types of errors a student makes—such as substitutions, omissions, or repetitions. By noting these miscues, educators gain valuable insights into the student's decoding strategies, fluency, and overall reading development.

Having a clear record of these miscues helps in identifying specific areas where a student may need more support or intervention. Furthermore, it can assist in tracking progress over time as students improve their reading abilities. Thus, the purpose of a running record closely aligns with its capacity to provide immediate, detailed feedback on a child's reading performance and skills.