The Scoop on AR
(Accelerated Reader)
- Why is Accelerated Reader important? The Accelerated Reader expectation is that students will read a minimum of 20 minutes per day or a total of 100 minutes for the week. The only way for a student to improve and excel in reading is to READ.
- What is Accelerated Reader? The Accelerated Reader Program is designed to develop independent reading skills. Students must read books of personal choice and meet point requirements of the trimester. Each book has a designated reading level and point value. After reading the book the student must take a multiple choice computer-generated test on the school's AR Program site.
- What are the book choices? The school library currently has more than 900 titles with associated tests. Reading levels range from 3rd grade to junior high school levels. (Note: most adult recreational reads are written at the 5th-7th grade levels.) The point designations range from 0.5 for easier books to 72 points for more word count books. AR books are also available in the classroom. Students should read fiction and nonfiction books.
- How many points are required? Each student is expected to meet his/her individual goal. The points will be determined by the STAR test to ensure individual learning. I will be monitoring your child weekly to assist in achieving his/her goal. Goals will be set every trimester between 10-25 pts.
- How are the tests scored? Passing score is 80% or above. The test will be recorded by the student as well as the computer program.
- What happens if the test is failed? Some students struggle with the computer tests. Students are encouraged to take notes as they read, review each chapter to help them remember information, or talk about the book with someone before taking the test. If a test is failed, he/she will notify teacher. We will discuss the problems your child is having. It will be the teacher's discretion if the student will retake the test.
- Must the student read the book alone? Many students benefit from reading their books with a "buddy." A reading buddy may be a relative or another student. Some students enjoy pair reading the same books. Students who read slowly benefit greatly from using a turn-taking approach to reading. This reduces frustration as the buddy reads a few paragraphs and then the student reads a few. Talking about the book improves comprehension for the test and increases reading enjoyment. Many fourth graders still enjoy the attention of reading with a parent. However, in class students will have a set time where independent reading is performed.
- What if a student cheats? Any student who is caught cheating for personal gain or assisting another student will receive 0 AR points for the book. Parents will be notified.
- Are there classroom incentives for Accelerated Reader? Students work toward 100% mastery of their goal for the trimester. When your child has mastered 10% (20%, 30% etc.), he/she will earn points toward our classroom coupons. In addition, a party will be held for all students who achieved 100% mastery.