How to Use Accelerated Reader in the Classroom

Accelerated Reader is a fantastic resource for teachers and students. Accelerated Reader is a computer program that allows students to test their comprehension of books they have read by answering a short set of questions. Accelerated Reader gives the teacher immediate feedback and enables her to help students select appropriate books for their reading level. Accelerated Reader can be used in many creative ways in the classroom.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Purchase the Accelerated Reader program from the Accelerated Reader Company and have it installed in your school library. The school librarian can then get help setting up the network for classroom use.
2. Come up with a plan of how you are going to use the program on a daily basis. Let students have access to a computer as soon as they finish reading their book. They may need to wait for certain times during the day or sign up ahead of time for a slot.
3. Post your procedures somewhere in the room so all students know what is expected of them with regards to taking AR tests.
   
   
4. Determine how many AR points per week you want students to earn. Most tests are 10 questions with a maximum of five points earned for a perfect score. Set this goal for the entire class. Since students read and earn points in their own level, there should be no need to adjust points down for more reluctant readers.
5. Set up a reward system for AR points above the requirements. Ideas include: a class party when the class has earned 200 points or an AR store where students can purchase items using the points they have earned above the requirement.
   
   

Tips & Warnings

• Check on student's progress regularly and adjust individuals AR levels as needed throughout the year. The beauty of the program is that it is individualized and kids can see their progress and stay motivated.