Subject Areas - Accelerated Reader
Sonoran Sky is proud to be an
Accelerated Reader School
Accelerated Reader (AR) is a program used at Sonoran Sky for third through sixth grade students to increase the fluency and comprehension while expanding the enjoyment of reading.
Alarming statistics point out that students in this age range are spending less and less time reading independently. This program provides invaluable PRACTICE time for improving reading. The AR Program challenges all readers – from the novice to the most advanced reader - to read more quality literature at their own level. Our library circulation has skyrocketed since the introduction of AR and we know that our children's literacy and learning power has multiplied as a result.
To increase student achievement in the area of reading, Sonoran Sky adopted the AR Program in 1998. The program is designed as a supplement to increase the quantity and quality of reading practice for each student reader on a daily basis. The AR program is not a replacement for direct instruction in reading.
Paradise Valley Unified School District has fully supported the adoption of this program. Our parents, through the Sonoran Sky PTO, have given financial support for the program by dedicating funds to purchase books and accompanying software to support the program.
Program Goals
• Create measurable growth in student reading achievement
• Help students become independent, self-directed readers and learners
• Make reading fun and help students develop a lasting love of reading
Program Results
• Sonoran Sky's SAT scores show substantial gains in reading skills since this program started
• Sonoran Sky's library circulation has increased dramatically. Students visit the library more frequently and actually read what they are checking out
How Accelerated Reader Works
Grade Levels: Sonoran Sky's AR Program is introduced in third grade and is an integral part of the reading program through sixth grade.
Testing for Reading Level: The student's initial experience with the program is a Standardized Test for Assessment in Reading, the “STAR Test.” This test is designed to identify a student's range of independent reading.
Book Selection: The independent reading levels are listed in grade level format and help to guide a student's choice of books. The target is to find material that is not too easy or too frustrating. Books in the Sonoran Sky Library are labeled by AR reading level so that students can select books that qualify for the program. Students and teachers can also refer to a master list of book titles sorted by reading level, author or title.
Reading Within the Range: Students are expected to read within their range, however the teacher is the final judge and can make exceptions for reading outside of the student's level.
Goal Setting and Grades: Teachers work with students individually to set an AR goal each quarter. Goals are set in points that are earned when students read books and successfully pass quizzes. The quizzes are designed to see that students have read and comprehend the books.
Quizzes: Students take a quiz after each book is completed. Sonoran Sky students access quizzes online during the regular school day.
Pacing: Students need to pace their rate of reading throughout each quarter. It can be stressful to try to reach a reading goal within the last week of the quarter. Parents can help to monitor their child's pace each quarter by asking to see their AR Log. This will clearly show whether a child is “on track” at any given time in the quarter.
Questions and Answers
Where Can I Get
a List of Books?
For a list of books, visit the online site AR Bookfind.
How can I find books my child would enjoy reading?
Going to the AR Bookfind website enables you to search by title, subject area, age range, reading range, etc.
What if My Child is Having Trouble Meeting His/Her AR Goal?
First, be sure your child is keeping a good pace throughout the quarter, and that he/she is reading appropriate level books while reading at home. Secondly, check with your child's teacher for strategies to increase reading comprehension.
