Accelerated Reader

What is Accelerated Reader (AR)?

AR is a computer programme that helps teachers manage and monitor children’s independent reading practice. Your child picks a book at his or her own level and reads it as his or her own pace. When finished, your child takes a short quiz on the AR website – doing well in this quiz is an indication that your child has understood what has been read.

How can I help my child become a better reader?

As with anything, performance improves with practice. According to Renaissance Learning’s research (the creators of AR), children who read at least twenty minutes a day, with a 90% comprehension rate on AR quizzes, see the greatest gains. Please encourage your child to read at home, discuss their books with them and ask questions about what they have read.

Quizzing at home

Pupils are advised to quiz within 48 hours of finishing a book.

1. Go to the AR-school based website, which can be found here.
2. Type in the quiz number for the book that has been read and then tick the relevant box (I have been read to or I have read independently, for example).
3. Your child will then be asked questions about the book.

What next?

Your child will then choose another book within their range at school. Home books may be read too; just type the title in Book Finder to find out if it is listed and what level the book is.

Levels on AR books from school can be found on the white sticker on the front of the book: BL 4.3, for example. Please check that books from home are of a similar level.