ALL ABOUT THE AR PROGRAM
What is it? AR stands for Accelerated Reader. This is an individual reading program in which students read a library book and then take a computerized comprehension quiz based on the contents of the book. The program is a supplemental program to our Reading Curriculum.
Who is involved? Grades K – 8 participate in the program.
Is every All Saints library book an AR book? All of our fiction titles and non-fiction titles have AR quizzes. We own every quiz made by Renaissance Learning. Currently there are 230,000 quizzes. Visit our school library website for a link to view all AR books.
What are “levels” for the AR Program? Before the children begin the AR program they are given the “Star Literacy Test” on the computer. Depending on the number of questions answered correctly, an enjoyment reading level is determined.
What if my child’s AR level seems low for his/her scholastic abilities? We have to remember that the AR program is for reading for enjoyment. In fact, its whole purpose is to help develop a love of reading in the students. When we read for enjoyment, it is not the same as reading for the scholastic purposes of holding onto concepts and, then, building on the concepts. Most of the best selling adult fiction novels and the daily newspaper are written on approximately a sixth grade reading level!
Does my child stay at a level or does s/he move? After a child finishes a book, s/he will take the computer quiz on the book. The optimal score for a quiz is between 85%-92%. If a child is consistently getting above 92%, the book may be too easy or the content too short. It is probably a good idea for the teacher to move the child up one level (e.g. 5.2 moves to 5.3, etc.) Conversely, if a child consistently scores below 85%, the level may be too hard and s/he needs to drop down in the level to achieve success (e.g. 3.4 moves to 3.3 until success is achieved).
If a child does not pass a test, the program does not allow the child to be re-tested on the same book.
What are A.R. Points? Each A.R. book has been assigned a point value. Based on the child’s percentage correct on the quiz, points are assigned. For example, a 2.2 level book may be worth 1 point. If the child scores an 80% on the quiz, s/he may receive .5 points. Points are determined by the number of words in the book, not by the difficulty.
What happens with AR Points? We have several incentives for the points. These are determined by the individual teachers and grade levels.
What is the Parent/Guardian role in the AR program? The answer is easy, READ WITH YOUR CHILD, encourage the program, monitor your child’s progress through weekly reports, and ask us questions when or if you do not understand something. Please address your AR questions to your child’s teacher or to Mrs. Karen Mesler, our librarian through e-mail.
KEYS to the SUCCESS of this program
Reading Time: We are striving to give each child, K – 8, reading time during each school day. In addition, your child MUST be reading at home as well. If reading is the most important academic life skill needed, we must make time in our busy families for it to flourish! Talk to your children about the books they are reading over dinner, ask questions about the characters, read some of the books yourself that your son or daughter are reading.
Computer Time for Quiz taking: Each classroom is equipped with one or two computers for taking quizzes. Upon completion of their book and with the teacher’s permission, students may take quizzes in their homeroom. There are other times throughout the day for students to take quizzes in the computer learning center, or in the library.
Books: We are continually striving to purchase additional AR books. In addition, we strongly encourage parents to use the public library. You can always check if a book has an AR quiz by visiting the AR website, there is a link to it on the library section of our school website. Encourage your child to read carefully and thoroughly.
Reminder: Please make sure your child has an AR book checked out at all times and is showing you his/her reading log on a nightly basis. Remind your child to bring this book to school each morning so s/he will have it when the teacher allows “free” AR reading time.