Becoming a Good Test Taker Open Ended – Read & Think

Objectives Review and/or learn strategies for answering open ended items. Practice the strategies using math problems.

What are some things you should do when answering an open ended item on a test?

Read and Understand the Question. Read the problem * The first time to get an idea for what you will need to do to solve the problem. Read the problem again * Look for key words and phrases like, “Explain”, “Describe”, “Show your work” Read the problem again if needed. If your not sure if you should show your work or not, SHOW your work.

Let's Look at a Question. Let’s highlight the key words. Be sure to look at part B of the question too.

Think before you answer. Think about what the question wants you to do. Think about what kind of math strategies you will use to answer the question. Think about the “magic words” you will use to help you explain your thinking. Just take time to think before you answer.

Now let's answer part A.

Now let's answer part B. There must be more to this question. Let’s look at the next page.

There is a part C * Always make sure to finish all parts of each questions. * First let's highlight the key words.

Now we are ready to answer the question. Remember to use “MAGIC WORDS” in your answer. To find, to show, because, since…

Summary Read the question and understand what the question wants you to do. Reread the question to make sure you understand. Locate the key words in the question Think before you answer. Go back and check your work, make sure you have answered all parts of the question.

Any Questions?

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