What is the primary purpose of a running record in literacy assessment?

The primary purpose of a running record in literacy assessment is to monitor reading fluency and comprehension. A running record involves a teacher observing and recording a student's reading behavior as they read a text aloud. This process allows the teacher to analyze various aspects of the student's reading skills, including the accuracy of word recognition, the use of expression, and the student's ability to comprehend what they are reading.

By capturing data on how many words a student reads correctly, the types of errors they make, and their level of comprehension during the reading, educators can gain valuable insights into the student’s reading development. This information can then be used to inform instruction, identify areas where support may be needed, and track progress over time.

The other options do not relate to the primary focus of a running record. While handwriting skills and oral presentation content are important literacy components, they are assessed through different methods, not a running record. Additionally, a copious written assignment does not align with the real-time observation and analysis that a running record entails.