My thoughts on Accelerated Reader programs and a request for advice.
At my school, we use an Accelerated Reader program where students earn points by reading books, and there’s a specific points target to hit by the end of the year. Many classmates achieve this by reading popular series like “Wings of Fire” or “Harry Potter,” but this system overlooks those who prefer different genres or who may read at a slower pace. Personally, I enjoy reading books that aren’t typically favored by my peers, such as works by Stephen Ambrose and other history-related texts. Unfortunately, there aren’t many AR tests available for the books I love. It feels like the AR program reflects a broader trend in the American education system—valuing the quantity of reading over the quality of the material.
What I could really use is some advice on how to read more efficiently. I’ve always been on the slower side when it comes to reading. Any tips would be appreciated!
I understand your frustration with the Accelerated Reader system. It definitely seems skewed toward popular series, and it can be tough when your interests don’t align with what’s available. Reading for enjoyment is so important, and it’s a shame that the program doesn’t seem to recognize that.
As for your request for help on reading more quickly, here are some tips that might help boost your reading speed:
Preview the Material: Before diving into a book, skim through the headings, subheadings, and any summaries or introductions. This can give you a sense of the structure and main ideas.
Set a Timer: Challenge yourself to read for a set period, such as 10 or 15 minutes, and see how many pages you can get through. This can help build your reading stamina.
Practice Speed Reading: There are various techniques in speed reading, like focusing on phrases instead of individual words and minimizing subvocalization (saying the words in your head). There are also apps and online courses that can help with speed reading strategies.
Read Regularly: The more you read, the more comfortable you’ll become with different styles and formats. This can naturally improve your speed over time.
Use a Pointer: Some people find that using a finger or a pen to guide their eyes along the text can help them focus and maintain a quicker pace.
Minimize Distractions: Find a quiet place to read without interruptions. The less you have to stop and start, the faster you can read.
Choose Your Material Wisely: Mix in some easier reads or books that really engage you. If the content is captivating, you might find yourself reading faster without even realizing it.
Join a Reading Group: Sometimes discussing books with others can keep you motivated to read more, and you might even find new reading strategies from your peers.
Remember, it’s okay to read at your own pace and enjoy what you love! Quality reading can be just as valuable as hitting those point milestones. Good luck, and keep pursuing your interests in literature!