AR READING REQUIREMENTS - 2010

AR/READING REQUIREMENTS - 2010-2011
M.A. Tietgens
This handout is to be used with current AR/READING LIST.

During the course of each semester, you are required to read three complete novels. Prior to the end of a 6-week grading period, a book report or AR quiz must be completed to satisfy that reading grade. This averages to one book every six weeks. Ten+ minutes are given at the beginning of each class period to satisfy this task, and all books are directly related to the course of study you will be following this year (i.e., American Revolution, Civil War, Westward Movement, Social Issues, World War 2, Pearl Harbor, etc.). When a book is finished, you are expected to choose another novel and keep reading. This eliminates the dreaded "log sheet/parental signature" requirement of lower grade levels. You are expected to read, on a daily basis, in the classroom and demonstrate that you understand what you've read. Grading period dates are: 9/17, 10/29, 12/17 (end of 1st semester), 2/11, 4/8, & 5/13. (The 2nd semester ends on 6/2, but 8th graders wrap it up at least 2 weeks earlier.) Reading must be completed a few days before the end date to allow time to take a quiz or submit a book report.

There are eight tables in my classroom and each table will have a basket that contains an array of AR books. Since all of my classes will be using the same materials, NONE of the basket books may be taken home. (Occasionally, I'll have an extra book from my personal library that I can lend you. If you check it out and you lose it, I expect you to replace it.) Note: I gladly welcome any copies that parents want to purchase or donate to the classroom. It doesn't take long for these paperbacks to wear out, so please treat them gently.

At the beginning of the period, someone retrieves your basket/personal journals from the back bookshelf. At the end of the allotted reading time, the box needs to be put back on the shelf. Take turns. (Note: I have journals that can be purchased for 50 cents.)

You and your tablemates will be chosing novels to read during a 6-week grading period. Keep in mind that some of the books may be lower or higher than your reading level and you are going to browse the selections to get a feel for them before you select. (The reading level doesn't matter because the quality of the material and its relationship to your course of study this year is what is important.) No matter which book you finally choose, make certain that you budget your time to accomplish the reading within the time frame. If you tend to read slowly, see me and I may have a copy for you to take home. (If you borrow one of my books, make sure that you return it to me directly --- NOT TO THE CRATE. Again, you are responsible for that book and, if you lose it, you should replace it.)

NOTE: If you've already read any of the books in the basket, don't choose them again. Your AR records carry over throughout your years in San Jose Unified SD. If you've taken an AR test in the past, the system will not allow you to retake it. You must select new material to read and pass this class requirement. If you fail a quiz with a score less than 60%, see me ... you are able to bring up the grade by doing a book report.