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AR Center
Accelerated Reader (AR) is a computer-based program that GCS uses to monitor reading practice and progress. Developed by Renaissance, AR quizzes students on reading comprehension and tracks student reading goals. We use Renaissance's Star Reading Test to determine our students' reading level. We use the reading level to guide the student in choosing books that are in their optimal reading zone. Reading books that are neither too easy nor too difficult allows the student to maximize their growth as a reader.
How do we use AR at Grace?
Mrs. Kimberly Madrid and Mrs. Sarah Rogenmoser lead our AR program, assess students, review and purchase books, in addition to tracking and rewarding student progress throughout the school year.
We have reviewed the entire collection in our library, most often referred to as the AR Center, and have labeled all the books with the necessary data to help the students make informed book decisions.
Grade Information
PreK-3
PreK-3 students do not leave their classroom. Instead, we will visit their classroom once a week for story time. Story time helps to develop our young students' vocabulary and builds their interest in reading!
PreK -4
Prek-4 students come to the AR Center once a week for story time, finger plays, and wiggle breaks. These students will check-out board books after the first six-weeks to help them learn to care for books and return them in a timely manner.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten students will come to the AR Center once a week for story time and book check-out. Star tests will be given at the beginning. middle, and end of the year. These reports will be sent home for parents to review. We suggest that these reports are saved to compare as the year progresses. When they are ready, Kindergarteners will begin taking AR tests in their classroom.
1st - 5th Grade
Grades 1-5 have weekly visits to the AR Center for book check-out and test taking. Startests will be given at the beginning. middle, and end of the year. These reports will be sent home for parents to review. We suggest that these reports are saved to compare as the year progresses. AR tests can be taken both in the AR Center during their weekly visit or in the classroom throughout the week.
6th & 7th Grade
6th and 7th grade will visit the AR Center every other week for book check-out and test taking. Star tests will be given at the beginning. middle, and end of the year. These reports will be sent home for parents to review. We suggest that these reports are saved to compare as the year progresses. AR tests can be taken both in the AR Center during their visit or in the classroom throughout the week.
8th - 12th Grade
8th grade and High School do not have the opportunity to check out books or take to take AR tests at this time.
More AR Information
Our Books:
Students may check out one book at a time. Books are checked out for a two-week period but can be renewed as needed. No overdue fees will be assessed. However, lost or damaged books will be charged a replacement fee. Parents may choose to purchase a replacement copy instead of paying the fee.
Other Books:
Students are welcome to take tests on books from other libraries or from home. To verify if a book has an AR test simply use the website ARBookFind.com If you do not find the book on the site it does not currently have an AR test.
When and where can tests be taken?
AR tests must be taken on campus during school hours either in the AR Center or in the classrooms. Most teachers have iPads or computers for the students to take AR tests on at appropriate times.
What is required?
Students will set a reading goal each six weeks with the help of their classroom teacher. In addition to working toward achieving their reading goal, at GCS we require that the student read at least 1 book per grading period.
Who do I ask if I have questions about AR?
Mrs. Kimberly and Mrs. Sarah would love to help you! You may call either office on campus and leave a message for us to call you or you can reach us by email below.
