Accelerated Reading

What is Accelerated Reader?

Accelerated Reader (AR) is an online reading programme. It helps pupils enjoy reading and improve their skills. AR encourages children to read regularly and for pleasure. It also helps improve reading understanding, comprehension and vocabulary.

Our School Website Link:

https://global-zone61.renaissance-go.com/welcomeportal/8820419

How does it work?

Pupils take a STAR Reading Test. This is a multiple-choice test. If pupils answer questions correctly, the test gets harder. If they find questions tricky, the test gets easier.
The test shows each pupil’s reading level, called their ZPD. Pupils take this test once every term so we can see their progress.

What is a ZPD?

ZPD means Zone of Proximal Development. This is the reading level that is just right for a pupil. The book should not be too easy or too hard.
Each pupil gets a number range, for example 3.5–5.5. This means they should choose books within that range.

How do pupils choose a book?

Pupils can choose books from the school library or from reading areas in classrooms and around school.
Books are colour coded and labelled to match ZPD ranges. Pupils first go to the area with their ZPD colour. Each book also has the ZPD number written on it.
Once they choose a book, pupils read it on their own and enjoy it. They should also read some of the book at home.

What happens after a pupil finishes a book?

After finishing a book, pupils take a quiz. They can do this on school computers, laptops, or iPads.
It is best to take the quiz within 24 hours, but after the weekend is fine too.

The quiz will have 5, 10, or 20 questions, depending on the book length. There is no time limit. Pupils need 60% correct to pass. 85% or higher is excellent!

At the end, pupils can see their score, the points they earned, and how many words they read.

What if a pupil scores less than 60%?

Pupils can read the book again and retake the quiz, which will replace the old score.
Or they can keep the score and choose a new book. Choosing a book with a slightly lower ZPD may help next time.

Can my child do quizzes at home?

Yes! Pupils can take quizzes at home using this link:

https://global-zone61.renaissance-go.com/welcomeportal/8820419

They use the same login details they use at school.
There is also time during the school day to take quizzes, such as:
Morning registration
After-lunch registration
Other times chosen by the class teacher

Why do pupils have to take a quiz?

Quizzes help show how well pupils understand what they have read. They also help teachers see how many books pupils are reading and whether they are choosing books at the right level. Quizzes help celebrate reading success.

Can my child read books from home?

Yes, if the book is on Accelerated Reader. You can check using AR Book Finder at
https://www.arbookfind.co.uk
Search for the book, and if it is within your child’s ZPD range, they can read it and take the quiz at school. You can also search by ZPD when choosing library books.

How can I help at home?

Please continue to record reading in your child’s reading record. Talk to your child about what they have read and ask questions about the story. It is helpful to read part of the book with your child so they can practise reading aloud. We will also continue to listen to pupils read in school during reading sessions.