Becoming a Good Test Taker

Today we will answer two questions: What can I expect on test day? How can I prepare? We will also answer any questions you may have about the test.

What can I expect on Test Day? You will be given PLENTY of time to take the test. Take your time and don’t rush yourself. You will see a mixture of poems, fiction, and nonfiction passages on the test. You will be in a different environment, and you may feel a little nervous. This is perfectly natural. Remember that this is an opportunity to show how much you have learned this year.

Tips for Test Day: Before the Test Get a restful night’s sleep. Your mind needs to be rested and ready for hard work! Eat a healthy breakfast. It is hard to concentrate when your stomach is growling! Keep a positive attitude. “Whether you think you can or you can’t…you’re right!” -Henry Ford

Tips for Test Day: Before the Test Arrive early. Give yourself extra time to get there and get ready. Come prepared. Bring all of the suggested supplies (pencils, highlighter, etc.) Don’t forget your lunch and a drink. Test taking is hard work, you will need to refuel!   Dress for success. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. You may want to dress in layers so you can take something off if you’re too hot or put something on if you are too cold.  

Tips for Test Day: During the Test Read or listen to the directions. You may want to start answering test questions right away, but make sure you understand the directions first. If you have a question, ask! If the directions are unclear or a something doesn’t make sense, ask the teacher. He or she will be happy to clarify so you know what is expected. Check over your answers. Make sure you responded to every question. Are you satisfied with your answers? If not, go back to any questions that you had trouble with and think about your answers.

Top Secret Test Stuff #1: When you don’t know an answer, it’s okay to guess. Giving it your best guess is way better than leaving it blank! #2: On multiple choice questions, use the process of elimination. Crossing off the choices you know aren’t correct helps bring you closer to the right answer #3: · You can look for answers or hints in other questions on the test! Only do this if you are making your best guess. Your first answer is usually correct so never change an answer just because of something you saw somewhere else on the test.  

How can I prepare? Practice! Study Island is a great place to practice. Plus, it is fun! Use a test preparation book or sample tests. If you need help finding one, ask your Title I teacher for help. Keep Coming to Class! We will continue to practice the skills that will be on the test. Don’t forget the skills and Strategies that we have been discussing during our Friday lessons! Let’s review them .

Skills for Success Understand the problem, question, passage. Read the questions first. Rewrite the open-ended question. Make predictions about the story before reading. Read the story carefully!!!! Underline/highlight the key points in the story that relate to the open-ended question and multiple choice questions. Use scrap paper to take notes and make your open-ended web. Write a rough draft and edit. Write your answer to the open-ended question. Answer the multiple choice questions.

Now it’s your turn… Do you have any questions or concerns about testing?

Type something on the board that you learned about testing.