Accelerated Reader
Here's how it works:
First, they must choose a book that is on the AR list (http://www.arbookfind.com/UserType.aspx) and have it approved by the teacher.
Then, they need to read it.
Once they have read the book, they must take the quiz over the book - in my classroom when I'm there.
In order for a child to receive credit for their book (out of 100 points in the grade book), they must get an 70% (in 6th and 7th grade) or an 80% (in 8th grade) or better.
I know this is kind of tough, but I trust they can do it!
They need to pass 2 AR quizzes a quarter. I let them know in class when the first test needs to be finished by (roughly midterm) and the second one is a day or two before the end of the quarter.
They always get a re-take on their quizzes if they did not pass it or don't like the grade their received. They just have to do the re-take within 24 hours.
I believe this program holds our students to a higher level of reading and accountability to their schooling!
Please let me know if you have questions or comments. You can reach me at tara.melmer@k12.sd.us
Tips for parents whose children struggle with reading comprehension:
Read aloud
Listen to a book on CD while following along with the book
Read together - out loud - take turns
Read the book more than once
Parents can ask good comprehension questions at the end of each chapter