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The Accelerated Reader (AC) Program at a Glance

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Reading is an essential skill that students use throughout their school career and into adulthood. Just like every other skill, reading requires regular practice. This can be a challenge, especially when children would rather spend their time playing a game or watching TV.

The Accelerated Reader (AR) program tries to solve that by giving students a reason to read. Each book in the database has an AR reading test quiz that measures each reader's comprehension. Read on for more information about this popular program.

What Is Accelerated Reader?

Accelerated Reader is a computer-based program that monitors students' independent reading. School media center specialists and teachers use data from the program to help students set reading goals and track progress. It does not take the place of tutoring or intervention programs that teach students reading skills and strategies.

The program works because it identifies each student's zone of proximal development (ZPD). This term refers to the types of books students can read on their own without feeling frustrated. Each book in the AR program has a corresponding number so students can easily identify which books are within their ZPD.

How Does the Accelerated Reader Program Work?

Students start by determining their reading levels. They may take an AR test or use a grade equivalent score from a standardized test. Teachers can also recommend a reading level for their students based on performance in class.

After choosing a book, students read. The teacher might provide some time in class for silent sustained reading. Students can also read at home. As students finish their books, they find and take the corresponding test. Teachers can review the results of the tests and use them to help students choose additional titles or find more suitable books.

What Are AR Points?

Books in the AR system have a point value that reflects the complexity of the text, word count and length of time required to read the book. Children's books have smaller numbers than classic novels. Students earn points based on how well they perform on the end of book quizzes.

Many students enjoy the sense of accomplishment they feel when they see how their points accumulate over time. Some of them decide to reach for more challenging books just to earn a specific number of points. Teachers might require students to earn a certain number of points during a grading period and assign a grade based on meeting that target.

Why Do Children Need to Read Independently?

There's substantial evidence showing how reading independently helps students improve their reading skills. It gives them an opportunity to practice the reading strategies they learn from their parents and teachers. Reading builds vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. It also develops background knowledge.

Letting students choose their own books is also important. Students who choose the books they want to read have more motivation to finish the material, which leads to better achievement. It lets students play a primary role in their own learning.

Can Struggling Readers Use Accelerated Reader?

Since students choose books within their reading levels, all students can use the AR program. They're also not stuck reading only books on their level. If they want to read a specific title that's outside their recommended range, they can get support from school personnel.

Teachers can share strategies and offer support, like paired reading. They may also step in if they see struggling readers performing poorly on tests. For example, if a particular student keeps failing tests because she wants to read fantasy novels, the teacher can find a list of fantasy titles that are also within the student's recommended reading range.

How Do Students Take AR Tests?

Students must use a computer or a tablet to take an AR book quiz, and each school that purchases the program is an AR testing site. Students cannot take tests at home unless the school provides a link to the AR platform. This allows teachers to monitor the students taking tests and prevents children from copying answers from other students or websites. Each test has multiple choice questions, and there are no written responses for students to complete.