Accelerated Reader Questions & Answers Power Academic and Performing Arts Complex

What is Accelerated Reader (AR)? A computer program designed to encourage student reading AR tests comprehension using multiple choice quizzes Computer software provides information about student performance to teachers and parents (if desired) Each book has a point value, starting at 0.5 for easy books to over 10 points for some chapter books

Who participates in AR? All students in 4 th and 5 th grades Goal is to encourage students to read and recall information about what they’ve read

How do I know if a book has a test? In this library, look at the spine –Colored dot or –White label with AR printed on it Books from home and from the public library probably have tests, too! Check at

When can my child take AR tests? Before School In library from 7 to 7:30 with a library pass from the auditorium During School In classroom or computer lab with teacher permission During recess or after lunch with teacher permission During library class with permission Every afternoon from 1:50 until 2:10 After School After Book Club meetings Parent request in advance

What does a quiz look like?

Does my child have to answer every question correctly to get points? To receive the full point value, all questions must be answered correctly However, students will receive partial credit for answering most of the questions correctly Students must receive a score of 70% or better to receive points

Is it OK to help my child? Reading together is always encouraged! We encourage students to read non-fiction books at least twice to ensure comprehension Talk to your child at home about what they are reading Students must test on their own

Accelerated Reader Rules 1. Students may not take tests on books that are lower than their STAR reading levels or ZPD For example, a 4 th grader may not test on a 1 st grade book. 2. You must read the entire book before taking a test on it. Non-fiction books should be read at least twice. 3. Do not take a test if you’ve only “seen the movie.” Books are very different from movies in most cases. You won’t pass.

Accelerated Reader Rules 4. Do not help other students with tests or share answers. This is cheating. Both students’ tests will be deleted. 5. No talking to other students while testing. It will be assumed that you’re sharing answers. 6. Tests may only be taken in the library, in the computer lab, or in the classroom with your teacher’s permission. You should always be under adult supervision while testing.

What happens if my child reaches his/her goal? Students will be rewarded and recognized each time their goal is met These rewards may consist of special prizes or snacks, etc. At the end of the school year, we will reward the top 40 point earners who met their goals each term with a special party and day of recognition!

How can I keep up with my child’s progress? Notes will be sent home at least once per 9 weeks to update parents on their child’s progress You can also log in to AR Home Connect using your child’s user name and password for real time progress reports Home Connect allows you to see which books your child has tested on, their scores, and their progress toward their goal You can also receive s each time your child takes a test

Other AR Rewards Students are also recognized for reaching Point Clubs throughout the school year All students will be recognized starting at the 100 Point Club Point Club members will receive special awards on Awards Days and may receive other special privileges throughout the year! Each month the top point earner with the highest average in each class will be recognized as the MVR (most valuable reader)

Other AR Rewards MVR of the month will be featured on the library bulletin board If time allows, Point Club members and MVR of the month students will also be recognized during school announcements Students who meet their library goals for the term will put their names in a jar for a chance to win a Kindle e-reader. We will give away one in January and another one in May!

READY, SET, READ! For more information about AR Reading Goals: Talk to your child’s librarians - Rooney Davis and Margaret Pigott