Final answer:
Mrs. Ehlers had the students do a quick retelling to assess their comprehension and recall (option a) of the text, which is a form of formative assessment to evaluate and reinforce students' understanding of the main ideas and details.
Step-by-step explanation:
After reading the text, Mrs. Ehlers had the students do a quick retell primarily To assess comprehension and recall. This activity is a type of formative assessment that allows teachers to gauge a student's understanding of the material they have just read. A quick retell serves as a tool for students to summarize the main ideas and details of the text, demonstrating their ability to retain and articulate information. It can also be used diagnostically to identify areas where students may need further instruction or support.
In the context of English or language arts, a quick retell is a strategic approach that helps students better understand the reading through informal analysis. Additionally, when students articulate their understanding of the text orally, they engage in a low-stakes situation that can make them more comfortable with the material and ready to write a more formal essay. Furthermore, sharing their comprehension with peers through retells can also facilitate learning, as it opens the door for group discussions which can enhance everyone's understanding through various perspectives. Moreover, quick retells can contribute to oral language development, as students practice communicating effectively and clearly. While practicing oral language is a benefit, the primary purpose of a retell in this scenario is to check for understanding rather than focusing on oral language skills development.