We all know it's coming....the CRCT. So what do you tell your children so that they take it seriously but don't overly stress about it? Here are a few ideas for you and your children.
1. The CRCT is what is referred to as a criterion-referenced test. This means that students are tested to see if they have mastered standards rather than compared against a norm group. Everyone can get a passing or exceeding score whereas the ITBS is based on a bell-shaped curve.
So what does this mean? This means that this tests what your children have been learning in class all year. Most of the questions on the test will be information that they know --this does not mean that they won't have to think or that questions might not be rigorous, but the material is standards-based. Occasionally there is a test item or material that the class has not yet gotten to but most of it will be familiar information.
2. Reading tests: it is a great idea to lip read reading passages. In a big group it's not possible to read aloud, but sometimes silently lip reading helps us to process what we read better.
3. On the CRCT students are allowed to write in their test booklets, and we encourage them to do that. Underline key words in reading passages or in questions that are being asked.
4. Eliminate incorrect answer choices by crossing them out with their pencil.
5. Students should pay careful attention to directions even if they are sure what they will say.
6. Be careful of words like NOT and ALL. They can get you.
7. Read through all the answer choices before choosing one. Sometimes a close answer is one of the first choices, but the best answer comes later.
8. Pace yourself throughout the test.
9. Use the restroom in the morning before testing begins.
10. If students have time left, look over answers. Don't second guess an answer unless you are certain that it needs to be changed.
11. RELAX and don't worry once it starts. By the week of testing students know what they know.
12. Eat a healthy breakfast before tests.
13. Get a good night's sleep.
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