Accelerated Reader Goals I will use NWEA data to set AR reading goals for the students for each quarter. These goals will be adjusted at the end of each quarter based on individual student growth. When NWEA reports are sent home (around mid-term during Q1), you will be able to see your child's lexile range in the reading section of the report.
The end goal for AR Goals, of course, is for each child to show growth, and according to best practice research, the best way to do that is to match children's reading levels and their reading materials. Though reading below grade or lexile levels sometimes will create no negative affects, ONLY reading below level will not promote growth. Of course, for those on the high end, we will need to work to also match reading level with appropriate content. I have some higher level books for my class library - fiction and non-fiction - to afford students more choices on the upper end. The public library staff is also a VALUABLE resource for finding high lexile books for us!
At the end of each quarter, we will celebrate reading growth with an AR party! The requirements to be invited to the AR party is outlined below. Students will have a percentage goal of 85% or better, a lexile goal, and a points goal. Again ALL goals are individualized to meet students where they currently are with their reading skills. Thus, with some effort, reaching the goals I set for them is very attainable!
Q1 = Students must meet one goal to receive a cookie treat. Q2 = Students must meet two goals to receive sweet treat and drink. Q3 = Students must meet three goals to attend the ice cream sundae party. Q4 = Students must meet four goals to attend the PIZZA party!
Students may also earn reading certificates throughout the year. The parameters for these are set by AR. The link for the certificate criteria is below. Each student can count as a goal.
Below are some resources to further explain the research behind the goal-setting. PLEASE contact me with any questions that may arise regarding the expectations for AR reading this year!
AR Grade Students will earn on an independent reading grade each quarter. This grade is worth 20 points, which is about 10% of their overall grade. This grade is taken from the scores from AR tests on novels read independently.