Get Ready, Set, TestTeam 7
Special Services Teachers
State Department of Education
Good Instruction…Good Test Scores?
One would expect that good instruction automatically leads to good test scores. Unfortunately, this deduction is not true.
What do you think?
Factors That May Decrease Students’ Performance
Poor curriculum/test match Uncertainty with test format Time management Improper mechanics/item attack
strategies
Lack of effort/motivation Student anxiety Teacher attitude Lack of understanding test
vocabulary Inadequate last minute preparation
Poor Curriculum/Test Match
Study Compendium Supplement for types and numbers of questions.
Match textbook with what is taught and tested.
Review pacing guide. Use charts, tables, graphs, analogies, and
synonyms in all content areas.
Uncertainty with Test Format
Provide opportunities for students to answer in SAT format.
Limit the number of times directions are given.
Utilize some SAT format within classroom evaluations.
Time Management
Give timed tests occasionally. Design tests up to 50 minutes. Announce and enforce time limits
on certain assignments. Practice time awareness.
Improper Mechanics/Item Attack
Multiple choice items Levels of difficulty Accuracy Guessing Determining the answer Use of time
Motivation/Lack of effort
Discuss reasons and uses of test. Have pep rallies, theme days, and
competitions. Create bulletin boards, door
decorations, and posters. Provide incentives.
Student Anxiety
Provide training in test-taking. Allow discussion about anxieties. Explain purposes and uses of test. Practice positive thinking. Help students to relax.
Teacher Attitude Model positive attitude and
enthusiasm. Be sure classroom reflects “up beat”
view. Show students a belief in their
capabilities. TEESA
Lack of Understanding of Testing
Vocabulary Incorporate testing vocabulary into
daily instruction. Initiate testing vocabulary in
kindergarten. Familiarize students with testing
vocabulary…TEACH!
Last Minute Preparations
Preparing the classroom Testing procedures and directions Timing the test Distributing and collecting
materials Administering the test
Preparing the Classroom
Examine room arrangement. Conceal subject matter and testing
materials. Complete prior to testing dates.
Procedures
Optimal physical conditions Adequate workspace for students Quiet surroundings Familiar testing room Emergency plan in place
Directions
Practice directions beforehand. Follow instructions exactly. Enunciate clearly when reading. Remind students to ask questions
when directions are given.
Timing the Test
Observe time limits precisely. Use a stop watch or second hand. Write out time allocations. Have a large clock in view.
Distributing and Collecting Materials
Assemble materials beforehand. Devise a plan for distributing and
collecting. Have #2 pencils ready. Inventory all materials before
returning.
Administering the Test
Walk quietly among students while testing.
Do not assist students with any answers.
Maintain control of students. Report any irregularities.
The hardest part of being a good teacher is that you have to do it everyday.