It's Test-Taking Time

Does your child cringe at test time? Does he/she suffer from a sudden onslaught of tummy aches? Or does your youngster suffer from the blahs - so bored with the process that he's ready to randomly fill in the blanks without reading the questions? When test-taking time begins, will you be ready? And will you be ready to understand the results?

So Many Tests
There are lots of ways to assess learning. Daily, teachers listen to children's responses during lessons and assignments. Periodically they develop measures of lesson mastery. Teacher-made tests, combined with classroom observation, work samples and homework are used both to determine youngsters' grades and to evaluate readiness for more advanced work. But teacher-created assessments are limited in scope. They compare students with classmates based on specific instruction. At times we need a broader picture.

Standardized Tests
When we want to compare our school to other schools, we need standardized tests. What are these? In each grade, everyone will take the same standardized tests. Each will solve the same math problems, read the same paragraphs and ponder the same science and social studies challenges. Responses will be analyzed and graded by comparing students' answers to those of youngsters nationwide. These tests contain a sampling of questions in each instructional area.

How Can I Help My Child Do Well On Tests?

At testing time

• Make sure your child is in school on time every day during Stanford 9 testing.

• Johnny or Jane should be well rested. Send them to sleep early during testing time.

• Provide a good breakfast. Hungry kids just can't concentrate.

• Encourage your child to take tests seriously, but avoid too much pressure.

 
For the long haul

• First and most important, talk to your child's teacher often to monitor your child's progress and find out what activities you can do at home to help your child.

• Make sure your child attends school regularly.

• Provide a quiet, comfortable study spot at home.

• Make sure your child is well-rested and eats a well-rounded diet.

• Keep lots of reading materials and visit your local library regularly.