|
Test-Taking
Tips for Parents |
| What
are standards-based tests? |
|
The
New York State fourth grade Math and English Language Arts (ELA)
tests are standards-based tests. Standards-based tests are
designed to determine whether a student's performance meets
specific standards. |
| How
can you minimize the "FEAR FACTOR"? |
|
Let
your child know that it is normal to be nervous about the
"unknown", but the more he/she knows about the test the
less nervous he/she will feel. This Test Prep site is
designed to ease your child's nervousness and replace it with
confidence by changing the "unknown" to familiar and
manageable tasks. |
| How
can students gain confidence in test-taking? |
|
The
KEYS to replacing stress with a feeling of confidence are:
- Know what to expect
- Know the format of the
test (ELA has 3 sessions - one each day, Math has 2 sessions -
one each day)
- Learn about the
different types of questions
|
| What
types of questions will be on the tests? |
|
Session
1 has multiple choice questions. At difficulty students
should use the process of elimination to cross out incorrect
responses and make a good guess. Session 2 & 3 have
short and extended responses where students should write down all
work and use details to support answers. |
| Will
there be enough time to do all that is required? |
|
Students
will have enough time if they maintain a consistent pace
throughout the test. They should not get
"bogged-down" on any one question. They can come
back to a tricky question but they should make their best guess
before they go on. Encourage your child to answer every
question. |
| What
should you do on the nights and days of the test? |
|
Be
sure your child has adequate rest and a healthy breakfast.
The night before follow a normal routine and try to have an
enjoyable evening (watch a movie or play games). Send your
child to school with some words of encouragement and make sure
he/she is relaxed, confident and positive. |
