Accelerated Reader in Sixth Grade

Mr. Robertson   St. Charles Elementary         2021-2022

Can I read books that are easier or harder than my level?

The Star Test provides an estimate of your independent reading level.  You are encouraged to read books within this level, but I am generous with exceptions.  Show me the book for permission to read outside your level.

How much am I supposed to read each night?

You should  read 15 pages or 30 minutes a night.   If that seems like a lot, start with 10 pages or 20 minutes and gradually increase your daily pages.

How do you decide what my monthly AR goal is?

The computer helps me set the goal.  I enter 30 minutes a night, the computer knows your approximate reading ability and computes an estimated monthly goal.  I share the computer’s estimate with you and we make a decision together about your monthly goal.

How will you know if I’m reading each night?

I won’t, but every other day I will check in with you to find out what book you’re reading and what page you’re on.   At least once a week, I will ask you to write a response in your notebook about your book.  If you read every night, you will be able to easily do this.

Does it matter what kind of book I read?

Start by picking books you enjoy.  Mysteries, sports books, fantasy, survival stories, graphic novels, animal stories, realistic fiction.  Some kids like thick books, others like short reads.  I encourage you to stretch yourself as a reader, and read some new types of books.  

What if I want to read a book and it’s not an AR book?

Tell Ms. Perizzo in the library.  She is able to request that a quiz be made for your book.  This usually takes several weeks, so you might have to put the book aside until you know it has become an AR book.

I have a really hard time finding books I like!  What should I do?

Talk to friends about books they are reading.  Ask the librarian or Mr. Robertson for suggestions.  There are many book lists and book reviews available online.  Ideally, I’d like us all to be reading books that we love, but that’s not always realistic.  Sometimes you will read books that are just “okay”, and that’s okay.  Don’t give up on a book too easily, read several chapters before abandoning it.
 

I have a habit of not finishing books.  What should I do?

Make a serious commitment to a book and give it a chance.  Make sure it’s not too hard.  Make sure you are reading in a quiet place without distractions.  Try to read every single night so you can keep track of the story’s characters and plot.
 

Is it okay to watch the movie version of the book and take the quiz?

No.
 

What happens if I read a book and then I don’t pass the AR quiz?

If that happens, it’s important that you let me know right away!  We will talk about what might have gone wrong for you and then we’ll make a plan.  Do not wait until the end of the month to talk to me!

Is AR a part of my grade?

AR goals are worth 10 points every month (ie. reach 70% of goal = 7/10). Forgetting to read won’t affect your grade dramatically, but students who read regularly show more progress as readers. Parents will be informed on AR progress regularly.

Will I get in trouble if I don’t make my goal?

Nightly reading is considered an assignment.  If you fail to make your monthly goal, we will talk about the problem and we may need to make adjustments so you can be successful next month.

I’m a good reader and I love to read.  I can easily make my goal before the month is over.

You are expected to continue reading.  Talk to me about setting a challenge goal.

What if I want to read a long book that I know will take more than a month to read?

Talk to me and we’ll set a two month goal if necessary.