Introducing standardized testing into the homeschooling environment can be a daunting task for parents and their children. Homeschoolers may be unfamiliar with the types of tests or the type of testing environment that is expected of them, often resulting in feelings of apprehension and anxiety.
Parents may also be unfamiliar with the best practices for helping their homeschool child prepare for these tests. To help parents and their homeschool children tackle the challenge of taking tests, this article offers fifteen questions to consider in order to develop a comprehensive test preparation plan.
What Is the Obligation to Take Standardized Tests?
The obligation to take standardized tests can vary depending on the requirements of the homeschool state. While some states require no tests, others require tests be taken each year or at certain intervals.
It is important to check with the state and local municipality to determine the obligation to take tests. Additionally, some private schools also require standardized tests be taken to gain admission. Understanding the test obligations can help families plan realistically for when they will need to prepare.
What Are the Types of Tests Available?
Standardized testing options available to homeschoolers can include the SAT, PSAT, ACT, Advanced Placement (AP) tests, State Achievement Tests, and the Stanford The types of tests offered will depend on the student’s age, grade level, and state requirements. While the SAT and PSAT tests focus on higher level concepts, the State Achievement Tests and Stanford 10 offer smaller-scale assessments of a student’s academic proficiency.
Researching the types of tests available and possible test dates can help narrow down the specifics of a preparation plan.
How Can I Help My Child Prepare for the Test?
Preparation is key when it comes to helping children prepare for tests. Parents can research the types of tests available and their requirements, as well as create a study schedule. Parents may choose to find a list of sample test questions to help their children become familiar with the test material.
They can also reach out to former test-takers to gain insight into the types of questions they may encounter on the test. Parents should also consider accessing tutoring and test prep services outside the home in order to supplement the preparation plan.
What Resources Are Available to Help Prepare for a Test?
There are a variety of resources available to help families prepare for their tests. Many online and print resources provide test preparation information and guidance, including books, online tutorials, online practice tests, and online forums.
Parents should also consider using resources such as academic advisors and testing centers to gain access to valuable resources. Additionally, organizations like The College Board offer online SAT test preparation services and tutoring from certified test prep professionals.
How Can Homeschooled Students Gain Access to Test Preparation Materials?
Homeschooled students can access test preparation materials through a variety of sources including the internet, libraries, and private instruction. Online resources can be helpful for providing information and practice tests, while libraries can offer access to books and other material in addition to providing tutoring services.
Private instruction, either in-home or online, can provide personalized guidance and instruction tailored to the individual’s learning style.
How Can We Accommodate Special Accommodations During a Test?
For students with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, and/or chronic illness, tests can be an especially difficult challenge. It is important for parents to research the special accommodations available for their student in order to ensure they are able to take the test in the most comfortable environment possible.
Accommodations can include everything from extra time, to alternate testing locations and formats. To gain access to such accommodations, parents should contact the testing center as soon as possible before the test date.
What Is the Testing Environment Like?
For homeschooled students who are unfamiliar with the testing environment, the format of the test center can be quite intimidating. It is important for families to familiarize themselves with the overall layout of the test center before test day, including the type of furniture and technology. Knowing ahead of time the design of the room can help reduce any potential concerns about the surroundings on test day.
What Should My Child Wear to the Test Site?
For homeschooled students preparing for a test, it is important to dress comfortably, but also maintain a professional look. Parents should communicate the expectations for the test attire to their child to ensure the child is dressing appropriately for the test site.
Additionally, students should avoid wearing any brand clothing or logos that may be deemed offensive by the testing site.
Should My Child Bring Any Supplies to the Test Site?
Families should research what types of supplies are allowed at the test center. Generally, students are advised to bring 1-2 writing utensils, a pen, eraser, calculator, and watch (if applicable).
It is important to note that the testing center may not allow the use of certain items and even certain types of calculators and watches – so it is important to know before the test which items are prohibited.
What Are Some Strategies to Combat Test Anxiety?
Test anxiety is a common issue faced by many students taking tests, particularly those entering the testing environment for the first time. To combat test anxiety, families should develop a plan to combat any feelings of anxiousness leading up and during the day of the test.
Prior to the day of the test, parents and students can develop breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation techniques to reduce any pre-test stress or anxiety. Families should also consider reviewing test-taking strategies specific to the type of test the student is taking.
How Should We Deal with Distractions During the Testing Process?
Distractions can take a toll on the score of any test taker, especially those who may already be feeling unnerved. It is important to discuss with the student ways to minimize distractions during the test, such as earplugs, noise cancelling headphones/devices, and/or having noise blocking headphones.
Additionally, parents should be sure to have a backup plan in the event the testing center is too loud.
How Can We Ensure That the Test Is Taken Accurately?
Taking a test inaccurately can lead to a lower overall score. Families should be sure to practice taking practice tests in order for the child to become comfortable with the test format and types of questions. Additionally, parents should ensure the student is pacing themselves throughout the test by plenty of breaks and drinking water during the test.
Taking notes or using diagrams can also be helpful when attempting questions.
How Much Time Should My Homeschooler Spend Preparing for a Test?
The amount of time spent preparing for the test should depend on the type of test the student is taking, as well as the student’s level of knowledge. For example, if the student is taking the SAT, the recommended preparation time is approximately 8-12 weeks.
This should include between 2 and 5 hours of studying per week. For other types of tests, the amount of time spent preparing should depend on the test goals and the student’s test-taking experience.
Is It Possible to Take the Test at Home?
In some cases, it is possible to take certain tests at home. In order to request an at-home test, families must contact the testing center and their current school district and submit a request.
Once approved, a proctor must be present during the test, typically a school board approved educator or a testing center employee.
Conclusion
Standardized tests can be challenging for students who are unfamiliar with the testing environment, and for parents who struggle to evaluate the best test preparation plan. The fifteen questions included in this article provide a comprehensive overview of the testing process to help families navigate the intricacies of preparing homeschooled students for tests.
With a better understanding of tests, parents are better prepared to provide their children with the best tools, resources, and strategies available to achieve success!