Tips and strategies on how to prepare for a test.
- Preparation for your first test should begin on the first day of class; this includes paying attention during class, taking good notes, studying, completing homework assignments and reviewing study materials on a regular basis.
- Budget your time, make sure you have sufficient time to study so that you are well prepared for the test.
- Go to review sessions, pay attention to hints that the instructor may give about the test. Take notes and ask questions about items you may be confused about.
- Ask the instructor to specify the areas that will be emphasized on the test.
- Make sure you go to the class right before the test; it's another prime time for the instructor to give out more hints or the format of the test.
- Go over any material from practice tests, HW's, sample problems, review material, the textbook, class notes...
- Eat before a test. Having food in your stomach will give you energy and help you focus but avoid heavy foods which can make you groggy.
- Don't try to pull an all nighter. Get at least 3 hours of sleep before the test (normally 8 hours of sleep a night is recommended but if you are short on time, get at least 3 hours so that you'll be well rested enough to focus during the test).
- Put the main ideas/information/formulas onto a sheet that can be quickly reviewed many times, this makes it easier to retain the key concepts that will be on the test.
- Try to show up at least 5 minutes before the test will start.
- Set your alarm and have a backup alarm set as well.
- Go to the bathroom before walking into the exam room. You don't want to waste anytime worrying about your bodily needs during the test.
Here are a few tips (from GaDOE) for students when they experience online testing.
- What happens when there are multiple parts to a question stem?
When there are multiple parts to a question stem, the stem can always be seen on the left of the screen even when the student moves to the next part. Both parts will be presented consecutively. Students have the option of going back to a previous question if it falls in the same section. Please encourage students to look back at their previous answer if information is needed.
- How can students get the graphing tool to graph multiple functions at the same time?
After entering the first function hit the “Next” key and a new box will open to input the next function. Please encourage students to use the “Help” button (the button with a question mark) if they are in the test and unsure of how to use an online tool. In this instance, the student should click on the Help button (“?” icon), select “Graphing Tool” and directions on how to enter multiple functions will appear. Please also refer to the online tools training (under the tutorial icon) which can be found at: http://www.gaexperienceonline.com/.
- How can students include math symbols such as square roots and exponents in their constructed response?
Click the Equation Builder (EQ) icon at the top left corner of the response box and several tools will be displayed for student use (including the square root and exponent) symbols.
- How accurate do the open response answers need to be? (ASA, Angle Side Angle, or Angle Side Angle Congruent Postulate)
It is always best to be as precise as possible, however test readers will be able to decipher the difference in the example given.
- Does the fraction for constructed responses need to be simplified?
Only if the question specifically states that the response should be simplified or the grade level standard is specific to that skill (which is not the case in a high school math course). Otherwise, it is appropriate to submit a response that has not been simplified.
Student Resources
https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/health-and-support/exam-preparation-ten-study-tips
http://www.factmonster.com/homework/studyskills4.html
http://www.stlawu.edu/academic-support/how-should-i-prepare-tests-and-final-exams
Parent Resources
http://www.kidspot.com.au/school/primary/testing/9-tips-to-help-kids-prepare-for-tests
http://www.colorincolorado.org/article/parent-tips-how-help-your-child-prepare-standardized-tests
http://www.wikihow.com/Help-Your-Child-Prepare-for-Exams
http://www.parents.com/kids/education/tests/help-kids-ace-tests/?slideId=51761