Students Need Help To Prep For State Tests

By Beth Gollob
Staff Writer

Though standardized tests may seem distant to students finishing their winter breaks this week, parents are advised to get a jump-start on helping prepare for the year's most important tests.

The earliest state-mandated tests for third- and eighth-graders will begin in late February, but the rest won't take place until April and May. Only students in third grade and above are required to take the tests.

Oklahoma Core Curriculum Tests help schools find out how well a student understands state-mandated Priority Academic Student Skills, or PASS objectives.

The tests also help educators determine whether a school is making adequate yearly progress â€” a requirement under federal No Child Left Behind standards.

Since a new semester is beginning, now is a good time for parents to consider their children's daily habits and whether changes are due, said Kerri White, state Education Department mathematics director.

Parents should be aware of skills for which children will be held accountable on standardized tests, said Jennifer Watson, team leader for curriculum for the state Education Department.

Even if a parent's own skills are lacking, they can help their children prepare. "I would certainly always encourage parents to take time with their kids to read brief passages together and make sure they understand them. If you're rusty with algebra or your science skills, you can still help your child by reading them questions and listening to them to help them with their comprehension, she said.

Sample test questions are a great way for parents to help their children study, she said.

Model questions and copies of the "Parent, Student, Teacher Guide are available through the department's Web site each year for every subject and grade level.

"So if a parent is not sure they're comfortable with a subject, they can look back and make sure their child is doing it correctly, she said.

Parents also should reinforce good habits and try to break the bad ones. Students who don't eat right, don't get enough sleep, or don't exercise regularly probably won't do their best in school or on standardized tests, White said.

If a child is struggling with interpreting data tables, graphs or charts, then using everyday items such as newspapers, recipes and packaged foods can help them practice. That ability is needed not only for science and math tests, but also for reading portions of the test, said Jana Rowland, science director for the department.

Tips For Fostering Your Child's Education

The U.S. Department of Education has these tips for helping a child continue learning outside the classroom:

· Be an example and encourage your child to be a reader. Enroll children in a literacy program outside of school if they need extra help.

· Talk to your child about school and their world in general. Demonstrate how to be a good listener.

· Help children study by removing distractions, setting a study schedule, and providing a quiet place to work.

· Discuss with your child the importance of a good education.

· Limit the amount of time your children spend with TV or video games and monitor what they're watching or playing.

· Influence them to use the library when possible. Find out what educational programs they offer and encourage your children to enroll in one or more.

· Teach your children the importance of working independently and being responsible. Set rules and enforce them.

· Help spark their interest in learning through active discussions. Encourage them to voice their opinions and ask questions.

SOURCE: "Helping Your Child Succeed in School, U.S. Department of Education.