ar cons

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2003 : September : 24

ar cons
By bonnie

I am not saying there aren't a LOT of merits to the AR program. I am just saying that there are some concerns. I hope the next post shares more of the positives. I just think that perhaps you want as many of the cards
on the table as possible. So... I'll give you 5 of my concerns:
1. AR tests are computerized therefore it is not that the questions are all literal but most tend to be. Therefore you do not perhaps have your students reading to respond to text in the same way they would perhaps if they were reading for your class.
2. Students are reading and being questioned on text levels that still

need scaffolding. Therefore need direct instruction. If turning over instruction was as easy as putting them in control of book selection, reading, testing then what are we for? We can do AR (reading) AM (math)
AW (writing) etc... OUr salaries could buy a lot of computers.

3. We try to motivate children to learn to read and, to read to learn and expand horisons etc... all which should be INTRINSIC motivation. AR is extrinsic and children tend to read whatever is required to get by ... not for the love of it.

4. Cost, cost, cost and staff (person)to monitor

5. I like my students to rspond as often as time permits (every book)in writing so they are making and communicating they are making text connections!

Lastly, of course to end on a positive thought. Sometimes (it appears you are referring to grade 5) students at this age will only read for some merit of a kind. And anything that will motivate 12 year olds is worth it!

Good luck can't wait to se more comments...especially your decision