What is Accelerated Reader (AR)?

AR is a computer program that helps teachers manage and monitor children’s independent reading practice. We use this programme in years 7-11 to not only improve pupilsʼ reading ability and continue to raise their reading age, but also to encourage and nurture a love of reading that will continue into adulthood. Your child picks a book at their own level and reads it at their own pace. When finished, students take a short quiz on the computer – passing the quiz is an indication that your child has understood what has been read.

Teachers may assist students by:

• Guiding them to books appropriate to their ability and interests
• Asking probing questions as your child reads and before quizzing
• Pairing your child with others, reading with or reading to your child.

Since they 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 practise. According to research, children who read at least 20 minutes a day with a 90% comprehension rate on AR quizzes see the greatest gains. Encourage your child to read at home, discuss books, 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 program 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 15 minutes.  We use this test three times a year to monitor you child’s reading progress.

What is a Book Level?

Book Levels are reported using the ATOSTM readability formula and represent the difficulty of the text. The levels range from 0.5–13.5. Books are chosen based on the ZPD range recommended for each pupil by STAR Reading.  The books in the library are then colour-coded so the students can easily find books in their reading range:

What is a Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)?

ZPD is the range of books that will challenge a child without causing frustration or loss of motivation. Your child will receive a ZPD, or reading range after taking a STAR Reading test. It is important for children to read with a high degree of comprehension and within his/her ZPD.

What are points?

Every book that has an AR Reading Practice Quiz is given a points value. AR points are based on the length of the book (number of words). Pupils earn a percentage of points according to how well they pass the quiz.

How can I find further information?

Your child’s progress in reading age will be reported through Module grades, or you can talk to your child’s teacher.

Visit  AR Book Finder to conduct a search of all available books with AR quizzes.