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Open to page 1 of your test booklet and begin . . . now!
Public school students often hear this command for the first time in third or fourth grade. Your child may find this initial encounter with a standardized or "big" test nerve-wracking, but there's no need for either of you to panic. A little bit of background information and a few important tips can help ease those test-taking jitters.
Know the score
National standardized tests, such as the Iowa Basic Skills Test (IBST) and the Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills, are based on what is being taught in schools nation-wide. The tests are designed to measure how well a student has learned the basic knowledge and skills in reading and math. According to H.D. Hoover, one of the writers of the IBST, "The real reason we give the test is to furnish information to three people -- the parent, the teacher, and the child about his or her relative strengths and weaknesses."
Barbara Callaghan, a veteran elementary-school teacher and former principal, suggests that parents explain the purpose of the test to their children, encourage them to do their best, and assure them that the test will not affect their grades.
Here are some test taking tips from students and teachers:
Tips from Bradford, age 9, 4th grade
Do your homework -- you do better on tests when you do your homework.
Eat blue M and M's just before the quiz -- this brings good luck and makes you smarter.
Take a deep breath and relax and think "I can do this" while taking the test.
Tips from Taylor, age 10, 5th grade
Study the day before the test so you don't forget everything.
Don't get too nervous because tests usually aren't as hard as you think.
Tips from Damian, age 13, 8th grade
Plan a definite study time.
When you have a lot of other homework, study for the test FIRST --
it's most important.
Don't get too worried about every test.
Don't wait to learn everything until five minutes before the test.
Look at the review sections at the ends of the chapters in the books
-- they're really helpful.
If the teacher gives you a study guide, consider it a gift and use
it.
Tips from Barbara Callaghan, Teacher
Pre-test
Get a good night's sleep.
Eat a wholesome breakfast.
Dress comfortably.
Be on time to school.
Have all necessary materials (pen, pencil, calculator, etc.).
Avoid stressful situations prior to testing.
During the test
Listen to and read instructions carefully -- make sure you understand them.
If you have a question, ASK IT. Other kids are probably thinking the same thing.
Answer questions completely and with detail.
Check to be sure you have not skipped anything and proofread answers.
Do not let other test takers distract you -- it makes no difference who finishes first or last.
If you finish early, go back and proof your answers again. But don't change anything unless you are sure. Studies show that the first answer you choose is usually the right one.
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