Which of the following is an example of an effective informal method for monitoring students' comprehension of their literary texts?

Using running records is an effective informal method for monitoring students' comprehension of literary texts because it allows the teacher to gather immediate and authentic data on each student's reading skills during actual reading. This method involves observing and documenting students' reading behaviors, such as their fluency, accuracy, and understanding as they read aloud a text. It provides insights into how well they are comprehending the material and where they might be experiencing difficulties.

Running records enable educators to tailor instruction based on individual needs, facilitating targeted interventions or supports. This ongoing assessment approach helps track progress over time and gives teachers a clearer picture of a student's reading development, making it a valuable tool in the classroom.

In contrast, quizzes on characters, plot, and setting focus on specific recall of content but may not provide a full understanding of deeper comprehension. Oral presentations can gauge comprehension but are more structured and can be influenced by factors like public speaking anxiety. Relying solely on test scores to compare students can overlook individual growth and overlook the unique context of each student's learning journey.