What are AR and RC? Sunshine State Reading List 2011-2012: Grades 3-5 and Grades 6-8  Sarasota County Schools Students in Sarasota County schools can select from all available titles from Reading Counts and Accelerated Reader lists. The following links will take you to the website where you can search for titles and get information about reading levels and point values. Accelerated Reader, www.arbookfind.com (Alta Vista, Bay Haven, Emma Booker, Englewood, Fruitville, Gulf Gate, Lakeview, Laurel Nokomis, Phillippi Shores, Pine View, Taylor Ranch) Reading Counts, src.scholastic.com (Ashton, Brentwood, Garden, Glenallen, Gocio, Oak Park, Tatum Ridge, Toledo Blade, Venice, Wilkinson) Lexile Levels, www.lexile.com/fab/ What are "Accelerated Reader" and "Reading Counts"?   "Accelerated Reader" (AR) and "Reading Counts" (RC) are reading management software tools that are used in local schools. The tools provide an effective way to encourage and monitor a student’s independent reading. Teachers work with students to establish an individualized reading goal. As their reading skills increase, the goal is also increased. Reading books on the appropriate level ensures that every student is challenged without being frustrated. Quizzes provide assessment information to the teacher about a students reading level and comprehension skills. Students select books they wish to read, or a book may be read aloud to a child. Most of the titles that are on your child’s “AR or RC List” are available at the public library. You may want to check the list to see the reading level and how many possible points your child can earn. When the reading is completed, the child takes a quiz about the book on the computer. When a student passes a reading practice quiz, they earn points. Points are awarded based on the length and reading level of the book and on the student’s test score. Each school has different rules and guidelines about how their individual program works. It is important to check with your child’s teacher. The School District of Sarasota County has purchased tests for all of the AR and RC titles. The list of titles may be accessed by clicking on the websites listed above. Additional information about the programs may also be found at these sites.    Sarasota County Libraries DO NOT have access to the computerized tests. Check with your child’s teacher for access to the site where tests may be taken.