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Reading

At Goonhavern, we use Accelerated Reader (AR) to support and motivate independent reading once children have completed the Read Write Inc scheme successfully. The programme helps children find books at the right level for them, track their progress, and develop a lifelong love of reading.

What is Accelerated Reader?

Accelerated Reader is a computer-based programme that:

  • Assesses pupils’ reading ability through regular quizzes

  • Suggests books that are suitable for their reading level

  • Encourages daily reading and comprehension

  • Tracks and celebrates reading progress

Children read books from our school library (labelled with AR levels), take short quizzes on them, and earn points and awards as they progress.

How does it work?

  1. Star Reading Test
    Each child takes a Star Reading test each half term. This gives them a personalised ZPD (Zone of Proximal Development)—a reading range to guide book choices that are neither too easy nor too hard.

  2. Book Choice
    Children choose a book within their ZPD range and read it independently, during reading time in school and at home.

  3. Quiz Time
    After finishing the book, they take a short, online comprehension quiz. This helps teachers monitor understanding and ensure the book was at the right level.

  4. Track & Celebrate Progress
    Pupils earn points based on the book’s length and difficulty, and their quiz success. We celebrate reading achievements through certificates, displays, and reading challenges.

Why do we use it?

Accelerated Reader supports our aim to:

  • Improve comprehension and vocabulary

  • Develop fluency and reading stamina

  • Encourage reading for pleasure

  • Provide regular, meaningful feedback to children and staff

By linking children with books they enjoy and can access confidently, AR helps them grow into motivated, independent readers.

Supporting Your Child

  • Encourage daily reading at home (10–20 minutes is ideal)

  • Talk to your child about the books they’re reading

  • Help them log in at home to take quizzes when possible

  • Celebrate their achievements with us!

If you have any questions about Accelerated Reader, or would like help accessing it at home, please speak to your child’s class teacher.