Looking for test taking tips? There’s only one month left of school. End of year testing will be here before you know it. Help prepare your students with these test prep tips and resources.
TIP #1 – READ THE QUESTIONS BEFORE READING THE STORY.
Some stories can be long. Students can read the questions so they know what to look for. This can save time and students will have more time to complete the test. Better to get WRONG answers than not answer ALL the questions.
TIP #2 – PROCESS OF ELIMINATION
Questions are designed to trick students. Teach students to look for the answer choices that seem too obvious (unless it’s the right answer of course). Here’s an example:
12 x 6 = ?
A.) 18 b.) 60 C.) 62 D.) 72
We can definitely eliminate A. If students know their 5s, then B is eliminated, leaving C and D. The answer is D. Students completed the question without working it out, leaving more time for tougher questions.
TIP #3 – BE PREPARED! GET REST AND EAT WELL!
A good night’s sleep is great for students. Although we may not what their home life is like, getting a good night’s rest will help them mentally. Eating a good meal is great too! Ask your principal or other administrative staff if free breakfast can be provided for students. If not, ask parents to donate breakfast food for the week. Muffins and Apple juice pouches are perfect! Easier to concentrate when a student’s not hungry.
TIP #4 – PRACTICE WITH TEST PREP GAMES
These multiple-choice games are great for review. They’re also perfect for practicing test taking strategies. Demonstrate for students how to look for key words in questions. Show them the process of elimination with the multiple-choice questions. Grab the editable version and add your own tricky questions!
TIP #5 – ASSURE YOUR STUDENTS AND ROOT FOR THEM!
Test taking can cause anxiety in a lot of students. Even some adults still get anxious when taking tests. Reassure students that this is normal and it’s nothing to worry about. Don’t get stuck on a question. Stop and take a deep breath. Maybe skip it for now and come back at the end.
Something I left for my 5th graders were these testing taking treats. Research states that the smell of peppermints helps students concentrate and can boost memory. Anything to help your students. These FREE treat toppers are in my students.
DO WHAT’S BEST FOR THEM!
I hope all the test taking tips help your students. All teachers want to do is see their students excel! Hit “reply” and let me know what test taking tips you use in your classroom.
