We have worked hard all year, and SOL test preparation time is upon us! Beginning March 7, all third, fourth and fifth grade students will complete the RCPS Spring Simulations. These standardized tests closely mimic actual SOL tests and are used as tools for determining which skills need to be reviewed and retaught prior to SOL testing in May.
During the testing and preparation periods in March, April, and May, adequate rest and a calm approach to testing are crucial to your child's success. The NEA has provided practical steps that parents can take to support their children. Some of the steps are listed below. For more information, go to http://www.nea.org/tools/lessons/Test-Prep-Review-Strategies-Grades-K-5.html.
Preparing for Testing
• Note test dates on your home calendar; schedule appointments on non-testing days.
• Encourage your child to take responsibility for homework and class study.
• Praise your child for work done well.
• Encourage your child to ask questions at home and in class.
Testing Day
• See that your child is rested and eats breakfast.
• See that your child arrives at school on time and is relaxed.
• Encourage your child to do the best work possible.
• Do not send your child to school if illness is apparent.
• Do not remove your child from school on test days for appointments.
After Testing
• Examine all test reports sent home.
• Determine areas of strengths and weaknesses.
• Praise your child's testing strengths and make a plan to address identified weaknesses.
• See your child's principal, counselor or teacher if additional information is required.
Parent Strategies for Reducing Test Anxiety
• Discuss the test openly and in a positive way.
• Have realistic expectations of your child's performance while encouraging his/her best
efforts.
• Emphasize that the test is only one measure of academic performance.
• Emphasize that test scores do not determine a person's worth.