"How we give children feedback is probably the most difficult for us to change, but it is probably the point of most leverage." Johnston, P. (2012) Opening Minds. [Kindle version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com, Loc. 590
Small group discussions provide teachers with important information about the background knowledge a child brings to the conversation, and his/her understanding of the skills/strategies being taught.
Running records allow teachers to choose the best teaching points to focus on immediately, to meet the needs of their individual students in small groups.
Small guided reading and strategy group discussions allow teachers to evaluate their students' level of understanding. Anecdotal notes provide valuable data.