Accelerated Reader (AR) Helpful Hints

What is Accelerated Reader (AR)?
AR is a computer program that helps teachers manage and monitor children's independent reading practice.  Your child picks a book at this own level and reads it at his own pace.  When finished, your child takes a short quiz on the computer.  (Passing the quiz is an indication that your child understood what was read.)  AR gives both children and teachers feedback based on the quiz results, which the teacher then uses to help your child set goals and direct ongoing reading practice.

Children using AR choose their own books to read, rather than having one assigned to them.  This makes reading a much more enjoyable experience as they can choose books that are interesting to them.

Teachers and librarians help your child choose books at an appropriate reading level that are challenging without being frustrating, ensuring that your child can pass the quiz and experience success.

If your child does not do well on the quiz, the teacher may help him:
* Choose another book that is more appropriate.
* Ask more probing questions as your child reads and before he takes a quiz.
* Pair your child with another student, or even have the book read to your child.

How can I help my child become a better reader?
As with anything, performance improves with practice. Encourage your child to read at home. Create a culture of reading in your household by reading with your child, starting a home library, visiting your local library or bookstore on a regular basis, letting your child see you reading, and discussing books that each of you have read. When reading with your child, stop and ask questions to be sure your child comprehends what is read. Reading with your child, no matter what the child’s age, is an important part of developing a good reader, building a lifelong love of reading and learning, and creating a loving relationship between you and your child. Make learning a family affair!

What if my child doesn't like reading?
Using Accelerated Reader, your child will choose the books he wants to read.  The teacher will make certain the book is at the right level so that after completing the book, your child should do well on the AR Reading Practice Quiz.  Success on the quiz will encourage your child to read more.  With guidance from the teacher, and success, even students who say they don't like reading can develop a love of reading.

How do I use the Parent Portal?

To find out what your child is reading and/or how they are doing in AR you can check the parent portal.  https://hosted268.renlearn.com/304436/homeconnect/login.aspx

The picture to the right is the screen you will see. The User Name is your child’s first and last name with no spaces.  Then enter your child’s password which is usually the last four digits of their social security code. 

Parent Portal After Logging In

This screen will let you know how your child is currently doing on each test and for the entire school year.  It also will tell you what books your students are reading.

Up at the top of the screen there are options you can choose.  These are the options and how they will help you.

The Espanola link will change everything on the page to Spanish.

The Email Setup link, once created, will send you an email automatically as soon as a student's test is submitted.  It is a great resource to keep you informed of when they test and how they perform. 

The Help link will give you information on Reading Practice Quizzes, Vocabulary Practice Quizzes, My Overall Progress, My Last Quiz and Book Details, Reader Certifications, how to Find Books, and a Parent’s Guide to Accelerated Reader.

My child already does well in school.  Why does she need this?
Even if a child is gifted at playing a musical instrument, she has to practice to develop her talent.  Bright children, like all children, need to be challenged.  Teachers using AR software in their classrooms find it easy to guide each student to books that give the child both challenge and success, regardless of the child's level.

My child is not a strong reader.  Can she still use Accelerated Reader?
Accelerated Reader helps all children become better readers, from students with special needs to those who are gifted and talented.  When children read books at an appropriate level, they experience success.  Furthermore, teachers work with children to set appropriate goals based on each child's reading level.