Accelerated reader is a way to help children get excited about reading as well as monitor what books they are reading successfully. Every child has a ZPD which refers to their independent reading level. This zone helps them, you and me pick out "just right" books. Our AR library is in the process of being leveled according to AR. If you have a chance come by a grab and basket to level and label. I have instructions on have to label books. I have over 1,000 personal books, so they have lots of choices:)

Many of the children's take home books are also AR books. My goal is to help all the children become fabulous readers! I believe that the best way to become a great reader is to READ, READ, READ! The children who are reading Sunshine books (out of the "I Can Read" baskets) will begin by taking AR tests on books from read alouds in our classroom. All books are AR books once the AR folks write a test for the book. They are adding 200 books every week to the computer base!

I have decided that every child will take at least one AR test every week beginning in September. We are practicing learning how to type our information into the computer and navigate the site. As the children become more proficient they will take more tests independently. They earn points for each test they pass on AR. Each child will have a point goal for the quarter. This goal is to help them read more books; most books are worth a half point on the AR test. The BEST times for parent volunteers to help with AR is from 7:45-8:15. Please send me a note or an email if you can be an AR volunteer. I will also have the children take tests in the classroom and in the lab whenever we can. Thanks for your help!