Testing Tips for Parents

Test-Taking Tips for Elementary Students

Tests are important because they help the teacher evaluate a student’s needs and progress, the
student gauge his or her own level of mastery, and the parent monitor his or her child’s progress.

Tips to give your child about taking tests:

• ƒRelax. Just do the best you can.
• ƒYour first choice is usually correct. Don't change an answer unless you have a good reason to do so.
• ƒBe aware of key words such as "all," "now," "always," "never," "only," "exactly."
• ƒIn multiple-choice questions, don’t skip the longest answer. It should be considered, since test writers want to be sure the correct answer is accurate—they may add lots of details to insure accuracy.
• ƒ Watch for negative words like "not," "no," "never."
• ƒ Look for information in some of the questions. This information may help you answer other questions.