Kids struggling with learning or behavioral issues often have problems earning high scores on standardized tests. Just because your child has a hard time taking tests doesn’t mean that he or she can’t succeed.
By following these five standardized testing tips, you are helping set the stage for your child’s success.
Learn How to Study for Standardized Tests
Getting a good grade on a standardized test starts long before your child sits down at a desk. Learning how to study for standardized tests can make it easier for students to earn higher scores.
Some tips for kids with issues like ADHD include:
- Studying in short sessions.
- Taking frequent breaks that involve physical activity like walking outside or playing a game.
- Following a daily study schedule to reinforce learning.
Finally, don’t let your child cram for tests at the last minute. Incremental learning that takes place over weeks or months works best for most students. Cramming doesn’t let the brain form long-term memories, so don’t rely on it.
Underline Questions as You Read Them
Learning issues like dyslexia often make it difficult for students to read and understand the questions asked on standardized tests. Underlining questions as you read them forces the brain to slow down and focus on the material.
Teach your children to underline text as they read. You’ll likely find that it improves concentration and comprehension.
Eliminate Incorrect Options in Multiple-Choice Tests
Students don’t necessarily need to know the correct answers when they take multiple-choice tests. They just need to know which of the provided options answers the question best.
Students can reduce the anxiety they feel by eliminating outlandish answers. When you can remove two of five answers, you make it much easier to decide which one to choose.
Mark Difficult Questions and Answer Them Last
Children with learning and behavioral issues can excel in some subjects even while they struggle in others. Train your student to acknowledge the hardest questions on standardized tests, mark them, and save them for the end.
Saving hard questions for the end makes it easier to focus on the questions that your child knows how to answer. Otherwise, students can get stuck trying to answer questions that they don’t understand.
Request Extra Time to Finish the Test
If your child has a diagnosed learning or behavioral issue, then he or she should get extra time to finish standardized tests. Your student may need an IEP or 504 plan to qualify for extra time.
Make sure you take the proper steps to get an IEP or 504 plan for your child. Doing so will make it much easier to get extra time.
Standardized tests don’t have to stand between your child and success. With these five tips on your side, you can help your student earn higher scores.