Accelerated Reader Programme 2017

Dear Parent/Carer,

Accelerated Reader Programme

I am pleased to inform you that your son/daughter is currently taking part in the Accelerated Reader Programme (AR) for all Y7/ Y8 at Dereham Neatherd High School. This programme has not only been specifically designed to improve studentsʼ reading ability and continue to raise their reading age, but also to encourage and nurture a love of reading that will continue into adulthood.

Reading is a national priority for a number of reasons: being able to demonstrate competent reading skills is essential for subjects across the entire curriculum. Scientific research shows clearly that a student who reads regularly for 20 minutes per day is far more likely to be successful at GCSE level and beyond.

The Accelerated Reader Programme works by identifying a studentʼs ZPD (Zone of Proximal Development) which is essentially a selection of books that will not only match their ability, but will also challenge them and develop their vocabulary. Students will choose books from the library that fall within this range and, when they have finished the book, they will take a short, electronic quiz that assesses their understanding of what they have read. This enables us as teachers to have meaningful discussions about a studentʼs reading: what they have learnt and how we can help them to develop.

As stated, at Neatherd, we also want pupils to appreciate how valuable and rewarding reading can be. To this end, we will reward pupils for their individual successes during this process.

Students will be given library lessons and encouraged to visit the library during break and lunch, however, we would like to ask for your assistance in ensuring that your son/ daughter reads regularly at home for short periods of time as this will help them achieve.

If you have any questions about the AR, or if you would like a personalised list of books that fit your son/daughterʼs ZPD, please do not hesitate to contact us at the school.

Thank you for your ongoing support,

Mrs J Hunt (Head of Literacy)                                 Mrs L Gill (Librarian)