Accelerated Reader (AR) is a computer based reading program that was developed in 1986 by Advantage Learning Systems. It was developed in Wisconsin but is now used in over 75,000 schools across the United States and Canada. Its purpose is to get children to read books independently within their reading zone and to challenge them to reach higher goals.
WHY DO WE PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROGRAM?
As parents and teachers, we want our children to succeed in school and in life. Since we began this program in 2004, we have noticed a remarkable improvement in time spent reading and in enthusiasm for good books. Research has shown, that the more children read, the better readers they become. As children improve in comprehension and vocabulary, they will also perform better in other areas of study. Developing good reading habits now will reap benefits far into the future.
HOW DOES THE ACCELERATED READER PROGRAM WORK?
Students in grades 3-6 participate.
They choose a book from the AR list.
Students read the book.
They take a test on the book to verify they read it.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE TEST IS TAKEN?
Instant feedback is given at the computer.
Students must score 60% to pass a 5 or 10 question test.
For a 20 question test, students must score a 70% to pass.
If the test is passed, points are awarded.
If the test is not passed, no points are awarded.
Point levels are assigned to books according to level of difficulty.
Points are calculated for each correct answer.
Maximum points are not automatic.
As students reach various point levels, rewards are given.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Where may I find an Accelerated Reader list of books?
In the IMC on the electronic card catalog
On the school website
AR labels on books
How do I choose a book?
Pick a book that is interesting.
Ask others for recommendations.
Don't pick a book that is too hard or too easy.
Choose a book that you can finish in a couple of weeks.
Don't pick a book based on point values.
Finish a book as soon as possible or you may forget the first part.
How often should I be reading?
At least 30 minutes a day
Limited only by your own interests
Where and when do I take the tests?
In the IMC
At times agreed upon by your teacher and the IMC director
How many times may I take a test on a book?
Only once
How long are the tests?
They consist of 5, 10, or 20 questions.
They are multiple-choice.
It takes about 5 minutes to take a test.
Questions must be answered in order.
No question may be skipped.
Once an answer is chosen and OK is clicked, it cannot be changed.
Once a test is started, it must be finished.
How many AR quizzes may I take?
As many as you want
May I read any books on the AR list?
No
Must be within your reading zone or higher
Grade 3
8 Points
Grade 4
12 Points
Grade 5
16 Points
Grade 6
20 Points
Grade 3
16 Points
Grade 4
24 Points
Grade 5
32 Points
Grade 6
40 Points
Grade 3
24 Points
Grade 4
36 Points
Grade 5
48Points
Grade 6
60 Points
Grade 3
32 Points
Grade 4
48 Points
Grade 5
64 Points
Grade 6
80 Points
Grade 3
48 Points
Grade 4
72 Points
Grade 5
96 Points
Grade 6
120 Points
Grade 3
64 Points
Grade 4
96 Points
Grade 5
128 Points
Grade 6
160 Points
Read 3 books.
Read at a level of 2.0 or higher.
Read books that have at least 1 point.
Score 80% or higher.
Read 3 books.
Read at a level of 3.0 or higher.
Read books that have at least 2 points.
Score 80% or higher.
Read 3 books.
Read at a level of 4.0 or higher.
Read books that have at least 4 points.
Score 80% or higher.
An Awards Ceremony will be held at the end of the school year.
