What
is Accelerated Reader?
Does research
support using Accelerated Reader?
How
will students at St. John's participate in the Accelerated Reader Program?
How
can I help my child be successful with Accelerated Reader?
Does
my child have access to books, computers, and tests for the AR program?
How much can I
help my child with Accelerated Reader?
Is my child
competing with others in this program?
Accelerated
Reader is a computerized reading management program for students in grades 2 -
6. It is a unique system for motivating children to read and for tracking
achievement. Students select and read books of their choice and take
computerized tests when they finish reading. Books and tests available range in
reading level from emergent readers to eleventh 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.
Does research
support using 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. Studies confirm the program’s positive
impact on reading scores. School-wide recognition will celebrate our
achievements and successes. It is up to St. John's staff, students, and parents
to foster positive involvement in the program. The Accelerated Reader program is
another opportunity for staff and parents to push the students to read beyond
the classroom setting. The focus is on reading and celebrating!
How
will students at St. John's participate in the Accelerated Reader Progra
The
AR program has been installed on all Windows based computers in 2 - 6 grade
classrooms, the Library and the Computer Lab. Each student has been issued an
account and has access to all of the tests purchased by our school. Staff have
been given training, and students will be receiving ongoing training, help, and
testing opportunities in the classroom and during their Library time. Each time
a student takes a test, the results will be maintained on the network server so
that the information can be obtained anywhere in the school. Students and
classroom teachers will be able to review the student’s progress at anytime by
accessing their account.
How
can I help my child be successful with Accelerated Reader?
The
most effective help you can give your child is your own example-- 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. Positive reinforcement or
praise your child’s efforts with the AR program. A positive reaction or
recognition of the AR books and awards which come home may encourage your child
to try some more tests. Keep the focus on enjoyment of reading and understanding
books, not on accumulation of points.
Does
my child have access to books, computers, and tests for the AR program?
The
database on the St. John's network server has over 1200 tests to choose from.
Every child at St. John's may access any of these tests purchased for our
school. The program was initiated
in 1998 from profits earned from previous Book Fairs. The program is set so that a student may only take a test on
a given book once. Of those 1200 tests, we have all 1200 matching book titles
available. Some of the titles have more than one copy.
St. John's adopted the Accelerated Reader program as a supplement to our
current reading program. Children have access to the lists of tests available in
the school library, at the Groesbeck and North Central Public Libraries and now
on the website. If you or anyone you know wishes to donate books that are
currently on our AR test list for this program, please talk with Mrs. LaWarre.
How much
can I help my child with Accelerated Reader?
The
purpose of the Accelerated Reader program at St. John's is to motivate kids to
read, read, read! We want children to experience success and growth as readers.
Our implementation plan provides for all students to participate without
experiencing frustration. With younger students and beginning readers, questions
may be read aloud to students if necessary. A student will select his/her own
response to the question. Staff, parents, older reading buddies, and volunteers
may be called upon to help children. Our goal is improved reading and
understanding.
Is my child
competing with others in this program?
Again, the focus of Accelerated Reader at St. John's is to motivate all of our students to read, read, read! Active participation and effort are the ultimate goals and assessment tools, Every child is being challenged to participate and to reach his or her highest potential. Your child should be encouraged to enjoy reading while attempting to make his/her goal, not worried about competing with others. We want everyone to experience joy and success.