Accelerated reader

Charleston Day School uses the Accelerated Reader (AR) program as one of several tools to encourage students at all levels to read regularly. Typically, students in each grade complete parallel reading to supplement regular classroom assignments and work. The AR program allows the school to track a student’s progress in reading and comprehension levels. It has proven to be an effective way to develop the good habit of reading for both pleasure and general knowledge.

Each AR book in our library is easily recognizable by the red dot sticker on its cover. The AR program assigns a reading level to each book in its inventory; the book level is included on the red dot sticker. For instance, a book with a 2.1 rating indicates the book is for a student who is reading just about the second grade level. After completing a “red dot” book, students take an AR assessment, which usually consists of 10 comprehension questions. A student who scores well enough on the assessment demonstrates an acceptable understanding of the material. A cumulative record of quizzes taken by each student is automatically saved within the system. Printed reports are distributed to teachers at the end of each week.

Charleston Day School emphasizes that each student read both horizontally and vertically. Reading horizontally means a student becomes completely comfortable with a certain level before attempting to read at a higher level. Horizontal reading allows students to enjoy books at an appropriate level before moving on to a more challenging level. After confidence is established at a certain level students are encouraged to read vertically, moving up to a more challenging level. The AR level of a book is only one criterion used in determining if a book is right for an individual student.