To learn more about NWEA testing : www.NWEA.org

To help your child with Science fair: Science buddies

To prepare for AIMS with study guides and practices tests: http://ade.az.gov/standards/AIMS/AIMSSupport.asp

Web based program to help students to master state and grade appropriate standards for grades 3rd-12th : 

Study Island

 * * * * * * * * * * * *

Accelerated Reader (grades 3rd-5th)

We are happy to announce the implementation of the Accelerated Reader (AR) program in grades three through five. Accelerated Reader (AR) program is a widely-used, effective software program that personalizes and provides effective reading practice for each student's current reading level.
    This year - AMS's 3rd grade class has already begun using the AR program. Within the next couple of weeks we will start the program in grades four and five. To determine student's reading level, student will take STAR Reader test. Based on this test student is assigned one of the reading levels (ATOS). Students select books at their reading level from over 25,000 titles in the AR book list.
    Students are able to choose the books not only at their reading level but also based on their interests. Students read the books at their own pace and upon finishing they take a short quiz on the computer. Passing the quiz is an indication that the student understood what he/she was reading. In having students choose their own books to read, rather than assigning readings to them, the AR program makes reading a much more enjoyable experience. AR motivates children to read and helps pave the way toward lifelong love of reading and learning.

Below are a few ways in which you can help your child choose books.

Book Selection for Accelerated Reader

Option #1.

The following process highlights the easiest way to select books for your child. Follow the 4 simple steps.

• Step 1. Go to http://www.arbookfind.com (click on this link). Click on "Advanced Search" tab.

 
You should fill in these fields:
a) Interest Level. Choose the Grade Level of your child - LG (K-3), MG (4-8).

b) ATOS Book Level. Then type the ATOS Book Level (your child's teacher gave you a paper listing the ATOS level). For instance, 3.0 - 3.8.

c) Additional Criteria. These fields may remain blank. However, it will narrow your search if you do fill in these fields.

- Select a topic that is interesting to your child. Select the language and genre. Read the options to your child, and let him/her decide what he would like to read about.

- Press GO

- Have your child look at the book covers and choose the ones he would like to read. Click on the books and read their descriptions to your child.

• Step 2. Go to the library catalog http://librarycatalog.pima.gov/ to order your books or just drive directly to the library, the librarian will help you.
• Step 3. Type the book titles. Reserve the books.
• Step 4. Take your child to the library. Let him/her look at the selected books, and pick a few books.

Option #2.

Your teacher will give you a list of books within your child's level of reading. (Note: the list is limited and does not contain all the possible titles). You can go to the website of your local library and reserve 5-10 books from the list. This is how to do it.

• Step 1. Look at the book titles on the list. Ask your child if he/she is interested in any titles.
• Step 2. Go to the library's website here: http://librarycatalog.pima.gov
• Step 3. Type the book titles. Reserve the books.
• Step 4. Take your child to the library. Let him/her look at the selected books and pick a few books.

Lastly, don't worry if some of the books are not available in the local library. There is a big list containing thousands of titles; simply choose other titles.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding Accelerated Reader, please contact your homeroom teacher or Mrs. Perry at extension #23.