One reading program commonly used in elementary schools is the Accelerated Reader Program -- a software program that tests students' reading skills and suggests books for their particular reading levels. The pros and cons of the program are debated widely in educational circles. Some educators cite Russian psychologist Lev Vygotsky's zone of proximal development theory in support of Accelerated Reader (AR) while others criticize the lack of intrinsic motivation in incentivized programs.
Being read to aloud is a child's introduction to reading, but only about one-third of children from lower-income homes get that introduction. Early childhood educators and librarians provide a valuable service when reading to students. It not only encourages a love of books, but also improves students' vocabularies and prepares students to read on their own.
The type of reading club chosen depends on the goals of the club. Some incentivized programs focus solely on the number of books read, while others incorporate extension activities such as field trips, presentations and art projects. Online reading clubs allow students to track their own activities and that of other members from home.
It is common for student reading skills to backslide during the summer months unless students continue reading regularly. Summer reading contests encourage students to keep up their reading skills by monitoring the number of books read and/or the number of hours spent reading. Students keep a log of their activities and are monitored by the librarian or other program leader.