What is Accelerated Reader?
Accelerated Reader (AR) is a programme that supports and monitors children's independent reading. Children choose books suited to their reading ability and interests, read at their own pace and complete a short online quiz to check their understanding.
Teachers use quiz results to monitor progress, set individual targets and support each child's reading development. Children are encouraged to read books they enjoy and work towards their own targets rather than competing with others.
How much will my child read at school?
Children will have at least 20 minutes of dedicated reading time each school day. Research shows that regular reading, with good understanding, helps children make the greatest progress.
How can I support my child at home?
You can help your child become a confident reader by:
- Encouraging regular reading at home.
- Reading together and discussing books.
- Asking questions to check understanding.
- Visiting your local library or bookshop.
- Showing your child that you enjoy reading too.
How are reading levels decided?
Teachers use Star Reading assessments, standardised reading assessments and their professional judgement to identify each child's reading level.
Children are given a Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), which is a recommended range of book levels that provides an appropriate challenge without causing frustration.
Books also have an ATOS level, which indicates the difficulty of the text.
What are Accelerated Reader points?
Books with AR quizzes are given points based on their length and reading difficulty. Children earn points according to their quiz results.
To pass and earn points, children need to achieve:
- 60% or above on quizzes with 3, 5 or 10 questions.
- 70% or above on quizzes with 20 questions.
Points help teachers monitor reading practice and set individual targets. They do not indicate the quality or value of a book.
What if my child struggles with reading?
AR supports children of all reading abilities. Teachers help children select suitable books, provide support where needed and set achievable individual targets. The aim is to build confidence, improve reading skills and develop a love of reading.
How can I find books with AR quizzes?
Visit www.arbookfind.co.uk to search for books by reading level, age, topic and interest. You can also use a teacher-provided keycode to access recommended book lists.
Please remember to consider both the reading level and the age-appropriateness of a book's content when choosing books.
How can I monitor my child's progress?
Parents can receive TOPS Reports, which provide feedback on quiz results and reading progress.
You can also access Renaissance Home Connect to view your child's books, quiz results, points and progress towards targets. Please contact the school for login details.
If you need help using Home Connect, click the Help button after logging in or contact the school.
