When we teach our students test-taking strategies, we run the risk of inadvertently implying that it is possible to do well on a test by simply strategizing alone. This, of course, is not the case. No test-taking strategy can take the place of simply knowing the material, and it’s important that this be stated explicitly to students. Students who understand the material and who are confident usually don’t need strategies to help them do well on tests; and if they do, it is only on about 10% of the test items. Nevertheless, it is critical that teachers share the most important and foolproof test-taking strategies with their students.

The Secrets to Acing Tests!

• Attend school regularly and be on time.
• Come to school prepared, rested, and ready to learn.
• Complete all of your classroom and homework assignments.
• Ask for help if you don’t understand.
• Spend time every day studying and reviewing material.
• Create an organized and quiet place in which to study.
• Know that procrastination is the enemy of achievement!

Stay tuned for more tips on successful standardized testing.