Information about Briscoe's independent reading program. If you still have other questions after checking this page, please see Ms. Woznick in the Briscoe library or send her an email (awoznick@beverlyschools.org). If you would like to print a copy of FAQ, there is a printable version posted here.
You can watch a screencast that shows how to take an Accelerated Reader quiz.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Accelerated Reader?
It is a reading program in which students pick independent reading books from a list, read them, and then take a short quiz on a computer. At the end of the term, your reading and/or English teachers will receive a report showing which tests you took and how you did on them.
How do I know if a book is an "AR book"?
If we own the quiz, it is "an AR book." We own about 3,000 quizzes, so there is something there for everyone! If you take an AR book out of the Briscoe Library, it should have a red sticker on the spine that says Advanced Reader. If you want to find out if a book you have at home is an AR book, check the list.
What is on the list and where is it?
A hard copy of the list is in a binder in the Briscoe library – in order by title, by reading level, and by author. It's also posted on the Briscoe Library website and there may be copies of it at the public library as well. Don’t print it out – it’s 75 pages long!
How many AR books to I have to read?
Most 6th and 7th grade students are required to read one AR book per quarter and pass the quiz. Individual teachers may have more specific requirements or individual expectations.
May I take a quiz on a book I read over the summer/last year?
The purpose of the program is not to take a quiz - the quiz is just a way to check if you read the book or not. The purpose of AR is for students to select and read books on your own. You should read at least one book each quarter. You are typically not allowed to choose your summer reading book. Also, it is hard to do well on the quiz if you did not read the book recently.
What if I want to read a book that is not on the AR quiz list?
Some teachers allow alternate assessments, like a project or some type of book report. Keep in mind that those alternate assessments usually take more time than an AR quiz. Talk to your teacher about making the right choice for you.
What if I fail my quiz or am not happy with my grade?
You cannot retake the same quiz. If you fail a quiz, you may read another book and take the quiz for that book. If you get a low grade, most teachers will allow you to read another book and take a quiz and they will take your highest grade. Check with your reading/ELA teacher.
Where do I take the quiz?
Computers in the Briscoe library and computer lab have Accelerated Reader software.
When can I take the quiz?
You can come to the library before school, from 8:15 on most mornings, to take a quiz before homeroom. You can also come right after school at 3:00. It usually takes about 10 minutes. Sometimes your teacher will send you to the library during a class to take a quiz, but it is generally your responsibility to do it outside of school hours. See your reading/ELA teacher if this is an issue for you.
What are the deadlines for taking AR quizzes?
Individual teachers set the exact deadlines, but they are near the end of each quarter. You should plan to complete your AR requirement a week or more before the end of each quarter, but check with your teachers about their deadlines. Please keep in mind that it can get busy in the library toward the end of each quarter. Avoid the rush and complete your requirement early in the term!
What is the quiz like and how long does it take?
Most quizzes consist of 10 multiple choice questions. For a small number of very long books (Harry Potter, Twilight, etc.), the quizzes may be 20 questions. The shorter quizzes usually take about 5-10 minutes. Allow a little more time the first time you do it.
What do I need to bring to take the quiz?
Be sure to bring your agenda, because you will need your computer username and password AND your AR/library number. These should be in your agenda. If they are not, bring your agenda to Ms. Woznick and she will look it up and have you write it in there. You can also bring the book, as you are allowed to refer to it.
Can I refer to the book when I take the quiz?
Yes! It is a good idea to take the quiz as soon as you finish reading the book, and to bring the book with you. Then you can refer to it as you take the quiz, and you can be sure you have the right title.
How do I take the quiz?
We have directions posted next to some of the computers in the library, and they are also posted on the Briscoe Library website.
Before you take an AR quiz, you need:
How to Take an AR Quiz
Other things to know