About Accelerated Reader

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 Monitoring independent reading helps our students focus on careful and critical reading of excellent children's literature that has been carefully matched to each child's appropriate reading level. The Accelerated Reading program features short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals that help with motivation.

At the beginning of the year, students take a STAR test to evaluate their individual reading levels. With the student's input, we set a goal for the 1st quarter. At the of the quater, the student reflects on his/her progress and a goal for the next  quarter is set. The Star Test is also given at mid-year and at the end of the year to access your child's reading growth.

Students choose their own books from their pre-determined reading range called a ZPD (Zone of Proximal Development) and read at their own pace. When ready, they take a short quiz on the computer. The children get immediate feedback on the results of their quiz, and the teachers can monitor their progress through the computer program software. Points are awarded to the students based on the quiz score, as well as the length and difficulty of the book read.

My personal goal is to have each of my students achieve their individual goals. However, it should be understood that the goals given to the children are not meant to be easy. They are meant to challenge and stretch the child's reading ability. It should not be viewed as failure to not achieve 100%. In order to reach our goal, we all have to work hard and READ, READ, READ!! We will have many opportunities each and every day to read, including D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) time. Please be sure to ALWAYS bring a book to class with you. Let's all work together!

The makers of the Accelerated Reader software program have a website atAccelerated Reader Homepage. There you can see sample tests and sample student records, as well as book lists. Our library has a book list of the books that are on the AR program. Our library has many AR books. You may also check them out of any public library.

While we will provide many opportunities during the day for all the children to read at school, students are also required to read 15 minutes nightly at home as part of their daily homework. We hope you will read nightly with your child. Thanks for supporting your child in reading!!!