Standardized testing --it can be such a dread for the self-named "terrible test-taker." But we are here to say that doesn't have to be the case! Although it may not be the epitome of Saturday fun, it is very possible for your student to walk into their ACT, SAT or ISEE test and feel confident to accomplish it.
Here are a few tips that might help:
Prepare in advance. Start the study process several months ahead of the test. Life is very busy - school, work, sports, commitments, etc. Carving out time each week to focus on the specific test, allows your student to see where they need improvement through practice testing and study guides. Unfortunately, crammed test prep can heighten test anxiety, especially with significant pressure put on these particular results.
Working with an experienced tutor makes it easier to commit to regular test prep each week. At beam, your child's tutor will utilize practice tests and study guides to determine areas they need more support and review specific content they are not fully grasping. They will guide your student on WHAT to focus on during each category and utilize sessions to mimic real timing of actual test sections. This in turn will help your student feel confident and less panicked when the real clock is ticking.
Determine a score that best helps your child meet their ultimate goal after testing. SAT and ACT testing is a big step towards adulthood and further independence. Talking through what this score means for their future plans can make those concepts seem more concrete and attainable. Honest communication about test anxiety or fears can help lessen the weight on a student's shoulders.
Get plenty of rest before test day, not just the night before. If possible, have a good bedtime routine at least a week leading up to the big day. When the alarm goes off exam morning, your child will feel less groggy.
Don't test on an empty stomach. Even if nerves have your student's belly in knots, don't skip that nutritious breakfast -- at least eat something light! And remember to bring water to stay hydrated and to provide mental clarity during test breaks.
If your student gets stuck on a question, skip it and come back. For these types of tests, points are not deducted for selecting the wrong answer. Revisiting tough questions at the end of a section and making an educational guess is better than leaving a question blank. This also ensures that your child still has time to complete all other questions in that section.
If your child plans to test more than once, specifically for the SAT, utilize the test verification service order form online to receive more details of what questions your child missed. Your child's tutor can help them review this material and continue to improve for future tests.
Take a deep breath! Thousands of students take standardized tests every year. And of those folks, there are plenty of brilliant minds who are simply not great test takers. If that is your student, know they are not alone. And they will be alright!
Even with college requirements changing for SAT/ACT scoring, having those scores on hand is a great way to give your child options should they need them. With a plethora of private primary schools in the Charlotte area, we also understand the significance of the ISEE to our community of students. Whether your student needs help with a certain general section of an upcoming test, or overall improved test-taking skills, we have a tutor who would love to help!
Comentarios