Reading Test Questions on Multiple Choice Tests

SQ3R Method 1.Survey – Scanning the section will help you organize your thoughts. LOOK FOR: titles, headings, sub- headings to get the general idea; pay attention to pictures, graphs, charts, and diagrams.

SQ3R Method Continued… 2. Question – Ask yourself questions. What is this about? *Mark words you know & take notes. *Skip over difficult questions. Answer the easy ones first. *Mark what you do not understand to review later.

SQ3R Method Continued… 3.Read – each question at least once. *Read the directions carefully!!! *Focus on what you do understand. *Read to the end, and do not get discouraged.

4. Recite – Make connections. *Reread the question a few words at a time and translate their meaning. Try to restate the question in your own words, use pictures if you need to. Use whatever techniques work to help you understand. SQ3R Method Continued…

5. Review Go through your notes, make final connections and select your best answer.

Taking an Educated Guess on Multiple Choice Tests Tips & Suggestions Previously Released Test Items from 2007 Biology SOL

1.“One Second Pauses” (while reading) Read and pause, read and pause. Let your mind assemble the parts you just read to give you the meaning of the whole question. 1.“One Second Pauses” (while reading) Read and pause, read and pause. Let your mind assemble the parts you just read to give you the meaning of the whole question. F

2.Look Between Words & Graphics The graphic is often there for a reason. C

3.Are you "on track“? Is it a question of complexity or distraction? 3.Are you "on track“? Is it a question of complexity or distraction? F

Are you Tired? *Take a break. Do some stretching exercises, or try some deep breathing to help your mind refocus.

4.Cover your answers. Try to select the option that closely matches your answer. H

5.Eliminate Incorrect Options. Mark words or alternatives in questions that eliminate the option. C

6.True-False Test. Treat each answer like a true-false question. Select the answer that is the most true. C

7.Negative or Absolute words. Substitute words, like frequently for always; try to eliminate answers. The Biology SOL likes to use most and primarily. What is another strategy that we have already discussed that may be a better way to help us find the answer to the question below? B

8."Look Alike Options" One may be correct. Or, eliminate choices that mean the same thing. Confused? H & J both talk about feeding habits – eliminate them G

9.Prepare & Review previous SOL’s – similar topics are asked every year

Honorable Mention "All of the above" "All of the above" If two of three options seem correct... Echo options Echo options If two options are opposite each other, chances are one of them is correct Eliminate question options that are totally unfamiliar to you. Eliminate question options that are totally unfamiliar to you.

Other Suggestions Arrive early for your test & come prepared.Arrive early for your test & come prepared. Good preparation helps you focus on the task at handGood preparation helps you focus on the task at hand Be comfortable but alert.Be comfortable but alert. Stay relaxed and confident.Stay relaxed and confident. Adopt study strategies that work best for you.Adopt study strategies that work best for you. Try to study in an environment similar to the environment that you will test in. Resist the urge to leave as soon as you have completed all the items!Resist the urge to leave as soon as you have completed all the items!

Let’s Practice

What strategy did you use? What was your answer? A

You have to visualize the question if there is no picture. You don’t need to know all words in question to correctly answer question. What will you do if you feel stressed? You notebook is your portfolio—use it to find answers.

Other Tips Sometimes answers are consecutive