An Explanation of Accelerated Reader for Parents
Accelerated Reader (AR) is a national program used at Keller to assist in the improvement of
students' reading ability and their comprehension. It provides time for the practice of reading, just like
one has to practice to get better at developing any skill. The program uses a computer based vocabulary
test called the STAR test that adjusts as the student is taking the test to her/his individual reading level.
Then each student is assigned a personal reading level range. Keller’s school year is divided into months,
and each month students work toward a goal. Students read books which they choose in the appropriate
colors (colors correspond to grade levels) and take tests on their comprehension of the book on a
computer. The computer keeps track of the student's percent correct on each book and the number of
points the student earns, which are based on the length and the difficulty of the books. Students move up
in level as they have success reading at their current reading level.
Although each individual class may vary in how the program is managed, the purpose is to
motivate reading and ensure that students are reading book of their own selection that they comprehend.
The parent's role in this program is to encourage reading. Keller classes allot some reading time during
the school day, but reading at home increases the student's success. Most classes use AR in conjunction
with an at-home reading requirement. Students are strongly encouraged to read AR books for that at
home reading time.
Frequently Asked Questions about AR
1. How do I know if a book is an AR book?
AR Books in the library are marked on the spine with a colored indicator. This corresponds to the
books grade level. Additionally there is a label inside the back cover that identifies its level and point
value. There are many more AR books than we have in our library, however, and students are not
limited to reading our library books for AR quizzes.
2. Does my child have to read books from the Keller library?
Students are not limited to reading Keller library books. You may have books at home that are AR
books. You may get books from the Pikes Peak Library that are AR books. You may find out if a
book is AR by checking the website http://arbookfind.com. There is a simple search feature, and
information about the book, its level, and point value is available.
3. My child is supposed to read a “red” or a “green” book. What does this mean?
AR book colors correspond to grade levels, and all AR books are leveled as follows:
Grade Level
1.0-1.5
2.1-2.5
3.1-3.5
4.1-4.0
5.1-6.9
Color
Yellow
Blue
Pink
Orange
Purple
Grade Level
1.6-2.0
2.6-3.0
3.6-4.0
4.6-5.0
7.0 and up
Color
Green
Red
Brown
Gold
Black
4. How does the reading incentive program work?
All teachers work the incentive program in a way that best meets the mission and goals of the class.
Generally students set goals each month and read to meet their own personal goal. Many classes also
require a reading log that must also be met as a part of the goal.
5. Where and when do students take tests?
Generally students independently take tests in the classroom during classroom work time.
6. Who should I contact if I want to know more?
Your child’s teacher and/or Tim Adkison, Keller’s Library Technology Educator (328-5924) can help
answer your questions.