What is a Star Reader Test? 

Star Reading is a computer adaptive reading test used to access pupils' reading ability and to determine their recommended reading levels for Accelerated Reader. It consists of multiple choice questions and lasts between 20 to 30 minutes. Every child taking part in Accelerated Reading will complete a STAR reading test at the beginning of the year and at the start of each half term. 

The Star reading test, along with teacher judgement will assists us in identifying the child's ZPD ( Zone of Proximal Development) range. 

What is a Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)?
In independent literature-based reading, ZPD is the range of books that will challenge a child without causing frustration or loss of motivation. Your child will receive a ZPD range after taking a STAR Reading test or teachers can use their best professional judgement to determine a ZPD. It is important for children to read with a high degree of comprehension and within their ZPDs. 

Your child will choose a book between their ZPD range eg 2.1 - 3.0 . If your child is scoring a low percentage in their daily quiz they may be asked to choose a book at the lower scale of their ZPD, as this indicates they may have found this book more challenging. ZPDs should be adjusted based on the needs of your child.

What are points?
Every book that has an AR Reading Practice Quiz is given a point value. AR points are computed based on the difficulty of the book and the length of the book. Children earn points, or a portion of a book’s points, depending on how well they do on the Reading Practice Quiz. For example, a child who takes a 5-question quiz on a  book  worth 1 point  will earn 1  point for 5 correct answers  (100%),  0.8 point for 4 correct answers (80%), etc. A child who reads a book worth 5 points and takes a 10-question quiz will earn 5 points for 10 correct answers (100%), 4.5 points for 9 correct answers (90%), etc.

For quizzes with 3, 5 or 10 questions, a child needs to pass a quiz with a score of 60% or higher to earn points. For quizzes with 20 questions, a child needs to pass with a score of 70% or higher to earn points.

How can I help my child become a better reader?
As with anything, performance improves with practice. Encourage your child to read at home. Create a culture of reading in your household by reading with your child, starting a home library, visiting your local library or bookshop on a regular basis, letting your child see you reading and discussing books that each of you have read. When reading with your child, stop and ask questions to be sure your child is comprehending what is read. Reading with your child, no matter what the child’s age, is an important part of developing a good reader, building a lifelong love of reading and learning and creating a loving relationship between you and your child. Make learning a family affair!