Accelerated Reader (AR) is a popular reading program designed to enhance students' literacy skills through reading practice and comprehension assessment. While traditionally used in schools, many parents are considering implementing AR at home to support their children's reading development. This article provides a comprehensive guide on purchasing and using Accelerated Reader for home use.
Accelerated Reader is a web-based program that encourages children to read books at their own level. After reading, students take a quiz to assess their comprehension and earn points based on their performance. The program offers a vast library of books across various genres, ensuring that readers of all ages and interests can find suitable material.
Implementing Accelerated Reader at home can have several benefits, including:
Purchasing Accelerated Reader for home use involves several steps:
Before purchasing, assess your child's reading level and interests. Consider the following:
Accelerated Reader is developed by Renaissance Learning. The first step is to contact them directly to inquire about home use licenses. They offer various options for families, including:
In addition to the AR program, consider purchasing books that are part of the Accelerated Reader library. Resources may include:
Once you have acquired the program, setting it up involves several steps:
Follow the instructions provided by Renaissance Learning to create an account. Ensure that you have the necessary information about your child to set their reading level.
Adjust the reading settings to match your child’s preferences and needs. This may include:
Motivate your child to read regularly by establishing a reading routine. Set aside time each day for reading, and discuss the books they are exploring.
One of the key benefits of Accelerated Reader is the ability to track your child’s progress over time. Use the reporting features to:
Analyze quiz results to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Discuss these insights with your child to encourage self-reflection.
As your child improves, adjust their reading level to ensure they remain challenged while still enjoying the reading process.
Recognize and celebrate milestones, such as completing a certain number of books or achieving a high score on quizzes. This positive reinforcement helps maintain motivation.
There are several misconceptions surrounding Accelerated Reader that may deter parents from using it:
While AR is beneficial for struggling readers, it is also effective for advanced readers who need to be challenged appropriately.
AR is more than just quizzes; it is a holistic reading program that promotes literacy through reading practice, comprehension testing, and progress tracking.
While having access to AR books is beneficial, many public libraries offer AR books for free, allowing families to access a wealth of resources without incurring high costs.
Purchasing and using Accelerated Reader at home can be a transformative experience for both parents and children. By fostering a love for reading and providing the tools necessary for literacy development, families can create a supportive environment that nurtures lifelong learning. With the right setup, monitoring, and encouragement, Accelerated Reader can be a powerful ally in your child's educational journey.
By understanding the purchasing process, setting up the program effectively, and addressing common misconceptions, you can ensure that your investment in Accelerated Reader yields significant benefits for your child's reading skills.