8 Accelerated Reader Best Practices

Accelerated Reader (AR) is a popular reading program used in many schools to help students improve their reading skills. The program is designed to help students become better readers by providing them with a variety of books to read and quizzes to take.

However, in order for the program to be effective, teachers must use it correctly. Here are 8 best practices for using Accelerated Reader in the classroom. By following these best practices, teachers can ensure that their students are getting the most out of the program and that they are making the most of their time.

1. Use the STAR Reading test to determine a student’s reading level.

The STAR Reading test is a computer-adaptive assessment that measures reading comprehension and provides an accurate measure of a student’s current reading level. This information can then be used to select books for the student that are at their appropriate reading level, which will help them make progress in their reading skills.

The STAR Reading test also helps teachers track students’ progress over time by providing data on how much they have improved since taking the initial assessment. This data can be used to inform instruction and provide targeted support to ensure that each student is making progress towards their individual goals.

2. Set goals for students based on their reading levels and interests.

When students have goals that are tailored to their individual reading levels and interests, they are more likely to stay motivated and engaged in the program. This is because they can see how their progress is being tracked and rewarded, which encourages them to keep going. Additionally, setting goals based on a student’s reading level ensures that they are challenged but not overwhelmed by the material.

Finally, when you set goals for students based on their interests, it helps to foster a love of reading. By allowing students to choose books that they find interesting, they will be more likely to read for pleasure rather than just to complete an assignment.

3. Teach students how to use AR BookFinder to find books at their reading level.

AR BookFinder is a great tool for helping students find books that are appropriate for their reading level. It allows them to search by title, author, or keyword and then filter the results based on their Lexile score range. This helps ensure they’re not wasting time trying to read books that are too difficult or too easy for them.

Teaching your students how to use AR BookFinder will help them become more independent readers who can select books that are just right for them. It also encourages them to explore different genres and topics, which can lead to increased engagement with reading.

4. Make sure students have access to books at their reading levels.

When students are able to read books that match their reading level, they can more easily comprehend the material and make progress. This helps them stay engaged in the program and motivated to keep reading. It also ensures that they’re not overwhelmed by material that is too difficult for them or bored by material that is too easy.

To ensure that students have access to books at their reading levels, teachers should create a library of Accelerated Reader-approved books that are tailored to each student’s individual needs. Teachers should also encourage students to explore different genres and topics so that they can find books that interest them. Finally, teachers should provide guidance on how to select appropriate books and help students develop strategies for finding books that meet their reading level.

5. Encourage students to read independently.

Accelerated Reader is a program that allows students to read books at their own pace and then take quizzes on the material they’ve read. This helps them track their progress, stay motivated, and gain confidence in their reading abilities.

When using Accelerated Reader, it’s important to make sure that you provide your students with plenty of options for books to read. You can do this by having a wide selection of books available in the classroom library or by allowing students to check out books from the school library. Additionally, you should encourage students to explore different genres and topics so that they can find something that interests them. Finally, be sure to give students time during class to read independently and discuss what they’re reading with their peers.

6. Have students take quizzes after they finish reading books.

Taking a quiz helps students to assess their comprehension of the material they have read. It also encourages them to think critically about what they’ve read and apply it in new ways.

Additionally, taking quizzes can help teachers track student progress and identify areas where students may need additional support or guidance. This is especially important for students who are struggling with reading comprehension. By having students take quizzes after they finish books, teachers can quickly identify which skills need more attention and provide targeted instruction accordingly.

7. Give students incentives for meeting their goals.

When students are given incentives for meeting their goals, they become more motivated to read and complete the required tasks. This helps them stay engaged with the program and encourages them to keep reading. Additionally, it gives them a sense of accomplishment when they reach their goals, which can help boost their self-esteem.

You can give students incentives such as small prizes or rewards like extra recess time or special privileges. You can also offer recognition in front of the class or even have a celebration at the end of each term. Whatever you choose, make sure that the incentive is something that your students will find motivating.

8. Celebrate success!

Celebrating success helps to motivate students and encourages them to keep reading. It also reinforces the idea that reading is important and rewarding, which can help foster a lifelong love of reading.

When celebrating success with Accelerated Reader, it’s important to recognize both individual and group successes. You can do this by having weekly or monthly awards for the most points earned, as well as recognizing when an entire class has achieved a certain goal. Additionally, you can have fun activities such as book clubs or movie nights to celebrate the completion of a book or series. Finally, don’t forget to give out rewards like certificates, stickers, or small prizes to reward your students’ hard work!