Reading/Language Arts
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS CONCERNING
ACCELERATED READER
We have tried to anticipate some of the questions you may have concerning the Accelerated Reader reading program. Please do not hesitate to call your child’s reading teacher if further questions arise.
Is this a speed reading program or a program for really smart kids?
No. The name of the computer program is Accelerated Reader. Each student chooses books that are appropriate for his ability. The reading pace is also controlled by each student.
What books can the students read?
There are currently over 2000 books on the Accelerated Reader list we are using. These books are children’s classics and award-winning contemporary books of varying levels of difficulty. The list is updated several times each year.
Can students read any book on the list?
***Students may not test over books that have been made into movies.***
When deciding which book to read, a student’s first criteria should be interest. If a student is interested in a book they are more likely to finish the book, thus engaging in all the reading skills one encounters when reading a book from the beginning to end. If a student chooses a book solely because of its point value, many of these benefits will be lost. Parents should understand that every book on the list may not be appropriate for every child. Therefore, we encourage parents to monitor the books their child has selected.
Where can students find these books?
Accelerated Reader titles can be found in the RMS library, teacher’s classrooms, the public library, bookstores, and your neighbor’s bookshelf. A list of the A.R. books can also be found on the R.M.S. website. WWW.RMS.HUMBLE.K12.TX.US
When can students take the test over the book they have read?
Students will complete the book before they take the test. It is suggested that a test be taken very soon after they have finished the book so that the information will be fresh in their mind. Tests may be taken during class, tutoring, and by special arrangement with the teacher.
How do the students earn AR points?
Each book on the list has been assigned a point value depending on the reading level, length and concepts involved in the book. Students earn points by correctly answering multiple-choice questions over the book. These tests are taken directly on the computer and a record of the student’s work is kept there. If a student answers all of the questions correctly, he/she will earn the total number of points assigned the book. If, however, some of the questions are missed, the number of points earned is reduced. A student will earn some points if they pass the test (usually 60% is required for passing). If they do not pass the test, no points are earned. They may take the test only once.
My child read many books over the summer. Can he/she test over those books now?
No. Since academic credit is being given for work accomplished during this grading period, we cannot give a grade for something done when the child was not even our student. The only exception to this is the required summer reading.
Can students carry over points from one grading period to the next? NO
Can students earn bonus points for reading more than the maximum number of AR points? NO
We hope this has been helpful for you. Please remember that AR is only a part of our multifaceted reading program. We look forward to communicating with you throughout the year.