CAASP Test Preparation - Tips for Success
Teachers have been preparing students for this CAASPP tests with standards-based instruction as well as test-taking “practice” so that students are familiar with the testing format and strategies. You can help your children during the upcoming testing period (May 1 - May 12) by making sure that they come to school with plenty of rest, a good breakfast, and a positive attitude.
In addition, please help your child to avoid unnecessary absences during testing by not scheduling appointments and/or planning special trips during this time.
Here are some other ways parents can help their children prepare for standardized tests:
- Prepare for tests one day at a time – Some students get so worried about tests that they don’t do well on test day. Encourage your child to simply do his/her best, and be sure to point out his/her strengths. Your confidence will be contagious.
- The night before the test – When possible, try to spend a relaxing evening at home. It is important for your child to get a good night’s sleep.
- Start the day off right –Getting up early on test days helps prevent the morning rush and allows time for a complete, unhurried breakfast. Avoid topics or arguments that may be upsetting. Starting the day on a pleasant note will likely send your child to school with good feelings.
- Remind your child of the following practical test-taking tips:
- Reading or listening carefully to the directions is probably the most helpful thing to do
- Check answers carefully. It never hurts to review answers to avoid making careless mistakes.
- Skip a question and move on if you don’t know the answer. You can always come back later. Maybe you will be ready to answer that question then.
- Have your child dress in layers – students to better on tests if they don’t have to think about how hot or cold they are.
- Develop a healthy perspective – Remember, standardized tests are only one way to measure a child’s learning. Furthermore, standardized tests rarely measure some important things, like creativity, self-discipline, and interpersonal skills.
Most children don’t enjoy tests. But, helping your children develop a positive attitude about this “fact-of-life” can go a long way in helping them feel better before, during, and after the test.
