Accelerated Reader At a Glance
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Is my book on the AR Book List?
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Accelerated Reader (AR) is a popular reading program used in public and private schools. But even if you’ve already heard of this online program or your child is currently using it, you may have questions about what it is or how it works. Here’s what you need to know about Accelerated Reader and how it might impact your child at school.
What Accelerated Reader Is...and Isn’t
What Accelerated Reader Is...and Isn’t
- The idea behind AR is that kids enjoy reading more when they can select their own books. (The program has more than 150,000 titles to choose from on its BookFinder list.) Each book has online “reading practice” quizzes, which you may hear referred to as “AR tests.” Teachers use these quizzes to track each student’s progress and set appropriate goals for each.
- AR helps teachers track students’ independent practice and progress with reading. It’s not specifically designed for kids with learning and attention issues. But teachers can use it to help guide struggling readers to books they can read successfully.
- The program doesn’t teach reading skills and strategies. It’s intended to encourage kids to read independently, at their own level and pace. While the program covers K–12, it’s mainly used in grade schools and, to some extent, in middle schools.
- Your child’s teacher may work with the school district’s reading specialist or curriculum to track progress and set goals in the AR program.