1. Star Math PreTest Instructions For iPad users with the STAR app
Instructions take about 5 mins to go through. See the PreTest Instructions on the “Resources” page of the Star software (log in as a teacher)
Read the notes here word for word. To print this file so you can see the slides and read the notes, click on FILE-PRINT, and under “settings” change “Print all Slides” to “Notes pages.”
Cover or remove any materials on the walls, whiteboard, and other areas that might help students answer the test items. Do NOT permit students to use calculators or other devices during the test.
Make sure you have provided enough note paper and sharpened pencils for the students to use during the test. Scrap paper should be used (you might even want it numbered and turned in).
Teacher Talk:
“Before we begin, let’s make sure everyone has done a few things:
If you must use the lavatory, be sure to use it now before you begin the test.
You should have some reading material to occupy you for when you are finished with the test. If you have nothing, you will need to remain quiet and seated as to not distract others who may still be testing.
There are 34 questions on the test, and it should take you somewhere between 20 and 30 minutes to answer all of the questions.
(if students are in grade 7 or higher): For some of the algebra and geometry questions, there will be an on-screen calculator and an onscreen formula reference sheet that you can use to answer the questions.
(if students are taking the test using audio): Listen to the audio when a new question is presented to you. You will be able to pause, resume, or replay the audio if you need to.
“This test will probably be harder than other math tests you have taken. That is because STAR Math selects questions just for you to see how much you know about math. You will probably even see math concepts or problems that you have never been taught in school. This is normal for how this special type of test works.
Try not to get frustrated by this. Just try to give the best answer to each problem and you will do fine.
“Do not worry if someone finishes the test before you because every test is different. Do not worry about how many questions you think you get right, or how many you think you get wrong. Everyone will probably miss some of the questions. The main goal is for you to do the best you can.”

2. Teacher Talk:
“Each of the questions has a mathematical problem and a list of four possible answers.
Your job is to choose the best answer for the question. Sometimes the correct answer might not be one of the choices in the list. For example, in the problem shown on this slide, two plus three equals five, but five is not one of the possible answers.
In this case, choose “not given” as your answer.

3. THIS SLIDE IS HIDDEN – RIGHT CLICK OVER THE SMALL IMAGE IN THE LEFT PANEL AND UNHIDE IT IF YOU NEED TO USE IT
Old version said Gr 7 & up – still true????
“Some algebra and geometry questions will have an on-screen calculator and an on-screen formula reference sheet that you can use to answer the questions.
You can tap the calculator buttons, to use the calculator. Use the scrollbar on the formula reference sheet to move up and down within it.
Choosing your answer is easy. (You can change your answer choice before
you enter it.) Each possible answer has a letter next to it (A, B, C, or D).”

4. If audio is enabled
“If you are using audio while taking the test, there will be a control in the upper part of the screen that you can use to pause, resume, or replay the audio for the current question.
You do not have to wait for the audio to finish before answering a question; you can enter your answer at any time. “
(Teachers – this is a setting that can be enabled for certain students. Hide this slide if you aren’t using the audio feature)

5. “Choosing your answer is easy
“Choosing your answer is easy. (You can change your answer choice before you enter it.)
Each possible answer has a number next to it (1, 2, 3, or 4). On the iPad®, tap your answer choice. Then, enter your answer choice by tapping Next.
You can change your answer by pressing the number of your new answer choice or by clicking on it with the mouse. The program will draw the blue circle around your new choice. You cannot change your answer after you press Next.”

6. When you choose an answer, a blue highlight will appear around it (as shown). This only shows you which answer you selected. It does not mean that you selected the correct answer
To change your answer, press the number of your new answer choice, tap it. The program will highlight your new choice. You cannot change your answer after you tap Next.

7. “If you see a picture of a clock at the top of the screen as shown in this picture, time is almost up for that question. Choose your answer quickly. If you don’t choose an answer in time, you will see a message that says time is up for that question. The next question will come up in a few seconds, so be ready.”

8. Before you take the test, you may get some practice questions (students do not get practice if they have taken a test within the last 90 days). The practice questions look just like the real test. If you see this message when you are answering the practice questions, you should raise your hand and call the teacher or test monitor. He or she will know what to do.
If you don’t know the answer to a question, go ahead and choose what you think is the best answer.

9. Need your district ID – from webpage
Do not show this slide to students.
Teachers/Testers: You will need the Renaissance Place ID from your Renaissance/Star testing webpage. It is in the bottom right area of the screen as shown above.

10. “Tap the “STAR” icon on the Ipad home screen.
You should see this image on the screen.
Tap the blue button that says “Connect to My Renaissance Place”

11. “Enter this code in the top box: (give your district’s ID code)
The words “not connected” should change to “connected”

12. “Enter your username and password in the 2 boxes.”
Neither one is case sensitive.

13. “Choose the correct test – tap on it
“Choose the correct test – tap on it. A checkmark should appear next to your choice.”

14. Tap the blue “Next” button

15. “Please wait while we do a quick check to see that everyone is ready.”
Testers: check that each child has chosen the correct test. They are all the same color so blue is not an indicator as it used to be. Students can tap ‘Start’ as you circulate – monitor password is next, if that is enabled, so the test will not start right away.

16. “Please wait while we do a quick check to see that everyone is ready.”
Testers: check that each child has chosen the correct test. They are all the same color (blue) so green is not an indicator as it used to be. Students can tap ‘Start’ as you circulate – monitor password is next, if that is enabled, so the test will not start right away.

17. “Check that your name appears in the blue bar across the top of the screen while I enter the password.”
Adults should be checking the name also. The default password is “admin.” This is can be changed (especially if students discover it)
Your district or school can turn off the requirement for a monitor password. The advantage of using it is to have someone check that the correct student is taking the correct test.

18. “Before you take the test, you may get some practice questions (students do not get practice if they have taken a test within the last 90 days so you can hide this slide). The practice questions look just like the real test. If you see this message when you are answering the practice questions, you should raise your hand and call the teacher or test monitor. He or she will know what to do. “

19. “When you finish answering the practice questions, the program will show you this message: “Great job on the practice. Let’s go to the test.”

20. “If you don’t know the answer to a question, go ahead and choose what you think is the best answer.
You will see this message when you have completed all 34 questions. Tap OK”
“If you have any questions about this test, please ask them now. Once the test starts, the teacher or test monitor will not be able to explain any of the words to you or tell you if you have picked the right answer.
Have fun, and do your best!”