Reading in room A203 involves examining and exploring common themes in literature. Students will gain a greater understanding for plot development and character traits as they improve understanding and enjoyment of literature. A large component of reading in Mr. L's room is independently selected by students. Readers are encouraged to select appropriately challenging reading material and to always have a book at the ready to read.
Appropriate SSR (Sustained Silent Reading) books are 6th grade level chapter books or narratives that have a plot. This may include both fiction and nonfiction selections, but may not include graphic novels, cartoons, or magazines (although these can be quite enjoyable in other settings). Students will be required to select and read books at least some books that have an Accelerated Reader test available.
Accelerated Reader (AR) is a program that incorporates computerized tests about a corresponding story or book. Longer and more challenging books are worth more AR points than shorter or simpler books. Each quarter students must read books and take AR tests to meet or come close to an AR point goal:
- 1st Quarter - 6 AR points
- 2nd Quarter - 9 AR points
- 3rd Quarter - 14 AR points
- 4th Quarter - 21 points
Point tallies start over at the beginning of each quarter, and the increasing point requirement encourages students to read progressively more challenging books. In addition to meeting the point requirement each quarter, a project grade is entered for the average of all the AR tests attempted during a quarter; this discourages students from taking tests on books they have not read recently or only saw movie versions of. Alternate assignments and/or projects are available for students if necessary.
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