What is Accelerated Reader?
Accelerated Reader is a computerized reading management program. It is
a unique system for motivating children to read and track achievement.
Students select and read books of their choice and take computerized tests
when they finish reading. Books available at the Gold Canyon Library range
in reading level from emergent readers to ninth grade level. The program
keeps track of all the tests taken and points earned for each participating
student. The multiple-choice tests are made up of 5, 10, or 20 comprehension
and recall questions. After completing the test, the student is shown
how many questions were answered correctly. The program shows the answers
for the questions missed and awards reading points to the student’s
record. A TOPS report is then printed to show test results.
Research Supports Accelerated Reader
Accelerated Reader gives students instant information and reinforcement
for their efforts. By basing reading points on three standards (quantity,
quality, and reading level), the Accelerated Reader challenges students
to achieve and supports a literature-based reading program. Many studies
confirm the program’s positive impact on reading scores. Appropriate,
independent goals must be set for each student-- goals which will motivate
them to reach their highest potential. School-wide recognition will
celebrate our achievements and successes. It is up to Gold Canyon Elementary
staff, students, and community to foster positive involvement in the program.
The Accelerated Reader program is another opportunity for staff and parents
to encourage students to read beyond the classroom setting. The focus
is on reading and celebrating!
STAR Testing
Student reading levels will be initially assessed and periodically updated
using the STAR Reading program. This process will give teachers, students,
and parents a good idea of the students’ reading level and Zone
of Proximal Development (ZPD). The ZPD is a range of books levels. Students
should try to choose books within their ZPD range, so that they are practicing
reading with books that are "just right" for them, instead of
those that are too easy or too challenging. Of course they may read books
from outside their range for enjoyment, but most of their reading material
should be within their range. (Nonfiction books should be selected toward
the lower end of their ZPD range because of difficulty with vocabulary,
etc.) Students can find books on their level in their classrooms, the
school library, or the public library.
Reader Success
The most effective help you can give your child is by modeling independent
and shared reading and by discussing books and literature in your family.
Consistent opportunities to read together each morning, afternoon, or
evening will reap academic and emotional benefits. Provide positive reinforcement
or praise for your child’s efforts with the AR program. A positive
reaction or recognition of the AR books and awards which come home will
encourage your child to continue with their AR reading. Keep the focus
on enjoyment of reading and understanding books, not on accumulation of
points.
AR Reading Levels
The reading level is a number formatted as Grade.Month. So a 2.2 reading
level is rated for
second grade, second month. The level of each book is determined by the
number of words and the complexity of tthe text, and the vocabulary.
AR Testing
Students should test on a daily or weekly basis depending on the level of the book they are reading. First and second grade students should be taking at least two AR tests a week. Third through fifth grade students are expected to complete a chapter book at their level within a week.
Sample question:
from the quiz on Where the Wild Things Are (RL 3.4, Points 0.5).
Max wore a _____ suit.
A. tiger
B. lion
C. wolf
D. bear
This is a real question but don't worry, the computer shuffles the order
of both the
questions and choices!
