Accelerated Reader (AR) Requirements Mrs. Garza 7th grade core
FOR PARENTS
Accelerated Reader (AR) is a computer-based reading assessment program designed to encourage independent reading and promote growth at an individualized level.
Parents often ask how they can help their child to become a more fluent reader with strong comprehension skills. Scholarly research yields a common answer: Students should read more often, and they should view the act of reading as “enjoyable.” While students will learn about literary elements and how to analyze texts in school, reading done in the classroom alone does not ensure that students will achieve their full reading potential. Students MUST read independently for at least 15 minutes per day. Monthly reading logs for this class are aimed at creating a regular reading habit. Here are some interesting facts:
1. …the average 6th grader reads recreationally only 4.6 minutes per day! By reading approximately ten additional minutes per day (14.2 minutes per day), the average reading achievement level leaps from the 50th percentile to the 80th percentile. If all parents could recognize the importance of making sure their children have books and a comfortable place to read them for just fifteen minutes each day, we could revolutionize reading achievement in the United States-and all other countries, as well.6
2. Children who read 4.6 minutes per day read 432,000 words per year versus 1,146,000 words per year for the 14.2 minutes per day group. The benefits of increased amounts of reading are enormous. Word knowledge increases. Literal, inferential, critical and creative comprehension increase. Consequently, reading achievement levels soar.6
3. According to the National Education Association, having kids read a lot is one of the crucial components of becoming a good reader. Young readers need to become practiced at recognizing letters and sounds. The only way to get good at it is to practice.7
6Foriani, Bernard P. 2002. The Reader’s Companion.
7Gutloff, Karen. 1999. January. from http://bernardpflorianifoundation.org/literacyfacts
The AR program is meant to encourage students to read at home. In my reading class, the completion of independent AR reading accounts for 10% of the overall Reading grade. Each quarter, your child will be required to earn a certain number of AR points, which are individualized based on reading level. (This initial reading level is assessed through an AR computerized exam.) Though goal points will vary student to student, this research-based goal system is equitable: students who read at a slower pace and at a lower level would still be required to read about the same number of minutes as an advanced, faster reader; however, the points earned would vary because of the difference in the amount of words read in that time (points per book are based on word count). The individualized point requirement is optimal for growth and reader confidence, regardless of ability. If your child genuinely reads books cover to cover but fails the AR tests for them, please contact me; I can lower the ZPD level, or the child may ask for a book report form (as long as I was approached well before the deadline day).
To assist students in finding an appropriate AR book, Oak’s web page features a link under the “Programs” bar that enables a search for AR books based on a number of different features such as author, points, genre, ZPD range, or key word. Encourage your child to find a book of genuine interest!
Please look over the student requirements on the next page and sign.
Thanks for your support!
Shanna Garza
P.S. Books from home or the public library are often in the AR system!
AR Requirements FOR STUDENTS
Students: Please read the information on the parent side as well as the requirements featured here. Please get your signatures and return to Mrs. Garza by________________. Thanks!
You should NOT wait until these deadlines, however:
1) Read and finish book(s) soon,
2) Take the AR tests before school in the media center or in class. **If taking a quiz in the media center, you must bring your ID and you MUST get the printed score sheet signed by a media aide.** **Student initials______
This ensures that you have opportunities to read a new book and test again if needed. A 70% or better is usually required to receive AR points--the tests are generally made up of ten questions, depending on the length of the book. (A score of 60% might earn the test taker a few points, but only on certain books. The AR system is not consistent in this regard.)
NOTE: You are permitted to take an AR test on the deadline day, but you run the risk of not having enough time to read another book if you don't pass. You will not be brought to the library as a class to test for AR; it is up to you to test for AR on your own time. If you are unable to test during media center hours, then you can take the test on a classroom computer.
**Not completing your AR goal for the quarter = a lower grade in Reading.**
Extra credit? You can receive extra credit for reading beyond your goal. (Details on this will be discussed.)
"I didn't pass my AR test! What do I do?" First, consider whether the book was too difficult. Try another book on the lower end of your reading range. The failed AR test won't count if you read more points and pass the test(s) by the deadline day. If you don't pass AR for a second time, and you genuinely read the books, see me for a book report form. But don't wait until the last day to do this! I won’t give you a book report form if you wait until the last two days to test!
"Is this an AR book? What's the level? How many points is it worth?" You can look up books by going to the main Oak Middle School web page, hitting the "Programs" button in the gray tabs, and selecting "Search AR Quizzes." From there, you can search by title or use the green bar on the side to browse by genre, author, key word, points, ZPD range, etc.--a great tool!
Return by Sept. 28th
I have read and understand the AR requirements.
Parent Name (print) ___________________________ Signature ___________________________________ Date _____
Student Name (print) __________________________ Signature ___________________________________ Date _____
Core # _____