Strategies to Survive Testing Week
By Cheryl Thompson, Special to the Press Dispatch [Victorville, CA]
APPLE VALLEY - Monday begins testing week for many schools. I thought it would be a good idea to interview teachers and principals to get their advice and testing strategies for students and parents.
Educator Rick Piercy had this to say about testing week, "We forget sometimes that standardized testing is focused on individual students. The overall scores are very important for schools, but in reality we need to remember that we should use this and all other academic measurements for the benefit of the child who is being assessed."
"It is important to take the STAR test seriously, because it allows students, parents and teachers to look at academic growth and to make decisions about what the student is going."
Middle/high School principal Gordon Soholt offered, "The STAR test looks at cumulative learning. Cramming for the test doesn't help, it usually confuses the students. As always, adequate sleep and a big, but healthy breakfast are vital. It takes a lot of energy and a protein-filled breakfast is vital."
"Answer every question, even if you are not sure. There is no penalty for guessing."
Before beginning each test, take three deep breaths...in and out slowly...it fills the brain with oxygen and clears your thinking. Anytime you get frustrated, do the same thing...three deep breaths...in and out slowly. Doesn't that feel better?”
"Don't worry when other people finish the test. It isn't a race; there is no bonus for finishing first or penalty for finishing last."
Elementary principal Nancy MacLaren had this advice for parents and students on testing week. Nancy replied, "Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy breakfast. Don't indulge in junk foods or sugary snacks. If a student gets stuck on a question, go on to the next question. If time permits, review the question and you may remember the answer by then."
Fifth grade teacher Victoria Modeste also offered tips on taking deep breaths to relax. Her students practice 'mini-yoga.' She offered, "When your hand is tired, shake it. Stretch your arms, legs, and twirl your feet to relax. Don't spend much time on a question you can't answer. Instead, put a tiny checkmark next to the question. If you have time, go back and finish it. Don't forget to erase the checkmark."
All four educators had similar advice. Don't worry, relax, eat healthy, and do your best. You might want to let your teacher know before the test that you may be stretching. Remember, the score from this test doesn't define who you are as a person, or your abilities. Many factors or parts make up the whole person. The score from this test won’t determine your success in life. It is a snapshot in time of that week you tested. Remember, take deep breaths….
Cheryl Thompson is the Corporate Relations Manager at the Lewis Center and has a single-subject credential in business education. To reach Cheryl, call 760-946-5414 ext 202, or email at cthompson@lcer.org
Used with permission by Daily Press, Freedom Communication, 2005