Thoughts on Accelerated Reader Programs + Seeking Advice
Hi everyone!
I’m a 12-year-old and my school utilizes the Accelerated Reader (AR) program, which awards points for reading books. By the end of the school year, we need to accumulate a specific number of points. While this works well for many students who read popular series like “Wings of Fire” and “Harry Potter,” it doesn’t cater to those of us who don’t read those types of books or are naturally slower readers.
Personally, I enjoy reading titles that might be considered out of my age range, such as Steven Ambrose’s works and other historical books. Unfortunately, there aren’t many AR tests available for these selections. I feel that the AR program reflects a broader issue in the American education system, which seems to prioritize the quantity of reading over the quality.
I’m reaching out for advice on how to improve my reading speed. I’ve always struggled with reading quickly, so any tips would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
It’s great that you’re thinking critically about the Accelerated Reader program and how it fits different reading styles! Many students feel the pressure to read popular series just to rack up points, and it can be frustrating when the system doesn’t accommodate diverse reading interests like yours.
When it comes to improving your reading speed, here are a few tips that might help:
Set Small Goals: Start by setting specific, manageable reading goals. For example, aim to read a chapter a day instead of rushing through an entire book. This will help you build your confidence and gradually increase your reading speed.
Practice Skimming and Scanning: Learn to identify key themes, characters, and ideas in your readings by skimming the text first. Look at headings, subheadings, and any highlighted or bolded text to get an overview before diving deeper.
Minimize Subvocalization: Many readers tend to “say” the words in their heads while reading, which can slow you down. Try to focus on visualizing the content instead of pronouncing each word mentally.
Increase Your Reading Volume: The more you read, the better and faster you’ll become. Try to set aside 20-30 minutes a day to read regularly, even if it’s not for school points.
Use Online Resources: There are apps and tools designed to help improve reading speed and comprehension. Programs like Spreeder or ReadSpeeder can help you practice reading faster.
Practice With Varied Texts: Challenge yourself with different types of materials. While it’s important to read what you love, also consider reading shorter articles or summaries to build your speed.
Join a Reading Group or Club: Sometimes discussing books with others can motivate you to read faster and more efficiently, especially if there’s an element of accountability.
Talk to Your Teacher: If your reading interests fall outside the AR program, consider discussing this with your teacher. They might have suggestions or be able to accommodate your reading material.
Remember, reading is a personal journey, and it’s perfectly fine to pursue what you enjoy. Good luck, and keep fostering that love for reading!