Purpose:  Accelerated Reader (A.R.) is a computer program that measures reading comprehension.  Children read books, or are read to, then test on them.  It allows you and me to monitor reading materials to make sure your child is being challenged without becoming frustrated.  AR books have been color-coded according to the book’s level.  The book level is located inside the book’s cover, along with the number of points the book is worth.  Children will not be punished for tests that are not passed; however, it is important that they have comprehended a story well before testing on it.  Once a student has taken a test, they cannot take that test again.

A.R. Logs:  Each student has an A.R. Log, which will be kept in the three-pronged pocket folder your child brought to school.  This log will go home everyday and be brought to school everyday, much like their regular folder and agenda books.  The reason for the log is to record the A.R. your child reads along with the A.R. test scores.  Experience has proven that A.R. logs have a vital role in Accelerated Reader success, and all students must use them.  I need your assistance with this when your child reads at home.

How to Use the Log:  First, your child should read or listen to the story at least twice before you record it in the log.  Discuss what the book was about to make sure that your child comprehended it well.  You may need to discuss nonfiction books more since they tend to be harder to comprehend.  Then all you need to do is write down the date, book title and author, and note whether your child was read to, read with, or read independently.  The results will be recorded when your child takes the A.R. Test at school.  Please do not use cursive writing since that would be difficult for your child to read and enter into the computer.  Children will not test on a book unless it is has been recorded in the A. R. Log.

Open Checkout:  Your child will have an opportunity to check out books from the library everyday.  As soon as students have read the library books, they may go and check out more.  I encourage the students not to wait a week before reading their books.  This way they can read more books and take more A.R. Tests. Your child is allowed to check out two books at a time; however, if you only have time to read one book, your child can bring that one back the next day and get another one.  You do not have to wait until both books are read and recorded before getting more books.

Theme:  Our A.R. theme this year is "Presidential Election".  Students will be rewarded individually and as a class when new goals are reached.

A. R. Reports:  I will send an A. R. progress report home every six weeks.  This report will indicate your child’s current reading level and the percentage of the tests passed.  Our goal is to see your child’s independent reading level increase throughout the year.