Accelerated Reader

First, let me say that I am not a huge fan of Accelerated Reader. I have seen too many instances where instead of promoting reading, teachers have used the program to limit reading choices for children. For example, students have been required to check out Accelerated Reader books from the library instead of free choice books, or asked to return a book they really wanted to read because it was not on their reading level. However, reading about Accelerated Reader and other automated reading programs several weeks ago in class made me think about some of the benefits of AR and others like it.

So, when I came across this article last night in FAME's magazine, FMQ, I was reminded about the good points of AR. Building a Community of Readers: Using AR in an Unexpected Way by Sue Ahlers can be found at http://www.floridamedia.org/documents/FMQSpring2006.pdf. This article details what happens to reading when teachers are required to pass AR tests, as well as the students. And not just the reading and language arts teachers, but all of the teachers had to take one test each 9 week period. The top 25 point earners which comprises both student and teacher names are posted each week, and has led to some competitive teachers and students. The outcome? More books are being read and discussed, which is only good.

While I'm not going to run out and implement AR, immediately, I now see that there are some creative ways to implement all reading programs.