Accelerated Reader: What You Need to Know
What is Accelerated Reader?
Accelerated Reader is a supplemental- computer managed Reading program used in the classroom. Students read library books on an appropriate level and take tests on the computer by answering a series of questions.
What is the goal of the program?
The goal of Accelerated Reader is to afford students the opportunity to set and meet reading goals. It is a means by which to monitor reading comprehension (or understanding what is read.) The ultimate goal is to provide students with and to help students meet reading challenges by allowing opportunities to progress towards more difficult reading levels.
What are the benefits?
The program helps meet the individual learning needs of each student. Students can progress to more challenging levels on an individual basis. AR is not a “one-size fits all” program.
What incentive is there for my child?
Most importantly, students will gain a sense of personal achievement as they begin to read, comprehend and pass tests on books that they have chosen. They can also earn “dog tags” if the individual goal and/or points for the grading period are met.
Does this count as part of my child’s reading grade?
Accelerated Reader is not part of your child’s grade. It is a motivational program to encourage children to read. J
How will I know my child’s goal and book level?
You will be receiving a paper indicating your child’s goal and the color of the dot (indicating reading level.) This dot is on the binding (side) of your child’s library book.
Where does my child get a book?
Students are given an opportunity each day to go to the library and check out a book. A library book should come home each night and be returned to school when the book has been read at least 3 times to an adult.
How do I know how my child is doing with the AR program?
AR records will be sent home each week in the tan conduct folder which comes home on Monday.
How will I know when my child needs to move to a more difficult book level?
When your child gets a 100% on six tests that have been taken in a row, they will be moved to a more difficult level. Students will also be reassessed on the STAR reading test in December. Book levels will be reevaluated at that time.
How can I help my child achieve his/her reading goal?
Students should bring a library book home each night or whenever they bring their library book back to school. Read the book several times and ask them questions about the story. Have a conversation about the book. Fill out the AR bookmark (see attached) and return it in your child’s book the next day. This helps both parents and teacher to have some control over student preparation and test taking.
Can my child take more tests than the goal indicates?
There is no limit to the number of tests that can be taken (keeping in mind that our goal is 80-100 %.) Students can take as many tests as they would like so long as time allows.
