What is Accelerated Reader?
Accelerated Reader or AR is an online resource that enables computer-assisted assessment of student comprehension of “real” books. It enables
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more frequent and more detailed assessment in less time and with greater consistency
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formative feedback for children
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increased student motivation to read more, longer, and harder books
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formative feedback for the teacher
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class-wide diagnostic and screening information, including alerts regarding students who are at risk
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teacher promotion and management of effective reading practice
We encourage children to select their own books using a variety of choosing strategies. In addition, teachers may choose to allow students to take tests on books that they read collectively or books they have had read to them. After completing a book, children take a multiple-choice comprehension test on the book's content. Tests may have 5, 10, or 20 questions, depending on the books ‘AR level’. The program scores the test, awards the student points based on the results, and keeps a record.
The Accelerated Reader summary and analysis of results enables teachers to monitor both the quantity and quality of reading practice engaged in by their pupils. All tests are completed voluntarily and independently, and the system is intended specifically to have strong formative effects on children’s learning.
Teachers may assist pupils by:
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guiding them to books appropriate to their ability and interests
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challenging them to read a wider range of stories
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providing opportunities for your child to read, share reading or be read to
Since children are reading books at their own reading and interest levels, most children are likely to be successful and enjoy the books and quizzes. Best of all, they learn and grow at their own pace.
How can I help my child become a better reader?
As with anything, performance improves with practice. According to Renaissance Learning’s Research (the creators of AR), children who read at least twenty minutes a day, with a 90% comprehension rate on AR quizzes, see the greatest gains. Please encourage your child to
read at home, discuss their books with them, ask questions about what they have read and visit your local library.
What is a STAR Reading test?
STAR Reading is used to determine your child’s reading level. It is a computer-based reading assessment programme that uses computer-adaptive technology. Questions continually adjust to your child’s responses. If the child’s response is correct, the difficulty level is increased. If the child cannot answer a question or answers incorrectly, the difficulty level is reduced. The test uses multiple-choice questions and takes approximately twenty minutes. The STAR reading test will be used to determine your child’s book level.