Avoiding testing meltdowns
The Maryland School Assessment Tests (MSAs) are upon us. This is the test that’s given to students in grades 3-8 to measure their achievements in reading, math and science.
I don’t know anyone who really likes these tests, especially the students. But here are some suggestions from the American School Counselors Association on how to relieve the test anxiety that some kids can have:
- Have your child practice deep breathing.
- Tell your child to think good thoughts, such as remembering a pet or a fun time.
- Make sure your child gets enough sleep — at least eight to 10 hours — the night before the test.
- Have fun the night before. Play a board game or a sports activity.
- Eat a hearty breakfast, including complex carbohydrates and protein to make your energy last as long as possible.
You can read more here.
Any other ideas?
(Photo courtesy of the Maryland state Department of Education web site)
Comments
The MSA test does not test a student's achievement in reading, math, and science....it test's a teachers ability to teach the test material. The higher the test scores, the more money the school gets in federal funding. They should go back to the old Iowa tests that really do test achievement in reading, math and science. Parents need to be informed that this is not a student based test and keep their children home the week that this test is given. Maybe if this protest happened on a nationwide basis the government would see that No Child Left Behind means that all children are now taught on a mediocre level. Teachers need to be left to teach the children and not teach test material.
Posted by: Lisa | March 10, 2009 10:28 AM
Son is about to take modified schedule MSA w/calculator accommodations and extra time. Always make sure ALL the accommodations are in place at least several weeks before the test.
I am preparing now for those days. We practice being ready by time to go to school. We practice sitting for 2 hours. It is almost like a marathon. Need to practice ahead of the test.
Also, let child know that NO test ever changes your love, respect and acceptance of them. This is important for every child, but especially for children who struggle with test-taking for any reason; neurological, medical, etc.
Posted by: Judith | March 10, 2009 11:01 AM