1. State Test-Taking Tips
How to do your best when taking the state tests!

2. As you take the test… Keep your focus:
The tests do NOT go from easy to hard. Although you may not know one answer, KEEP trying!

3. As you take the test… Write on the test:
Underline the most important words in each question.
Remember, if a word is italicized, it is very important!
Write as many notes on the test as you would like.

4. Take your time…
Remember, you have as much time as you need on the STAR tests. Don’t rush.
Usually the last students to finish have the highest scores.

5. Take your time…
Read all directions. Many times a very important detail will be mentioned at the end of the directions.
What you know is as important as how well you follow directions!

6. Read the directions SLOWLY and CAREFULLY.
Take your time.
Sometimes you are asked to pick:
The CORRECT answer: Read all the possible answers before making your choice. You want to bubble in the VERY BEST answer.

7. Read the directions SLOWLY and CAREFULLY…
Sometimes you are asked to pick:
The INCORRECT answer: If the question states, “All are correct except,” you want to bubble in the answer that is not correct.
The SYNONYM: Bubble in the word with the SAME meaning.

8. Read the directions SLOWLY and CAREFULLY… (con’t)
Sometimes you are asked to pick:
The ANTONYM: Bubble in the word with the OPPOSITE meaning. Many times when you are asked to identify an antonym, a synonym is given as an option (to see if you know the difference!).
Take your time, be careful.

9. When asked to read a passage …
Read the questions FIRST (so you know what you are looking for).
Read the passage SECOND; circle words that relate to the questions.
** If you are unclear on the BEST answer, REREAD that part of the passage.
Some answers might be true or correct to some extent, but you are looking for the VERY BEST answer.

10. After you finish each test…
Go back and check your answers.
Answer every question. Do not leave any blank.
Make sure that your questions and answers line up and that the bubbles are dark and clear (legible).

11. Each test is very important…
It is a main determiner on whether you will have an elective next year, or if you will be placed in remedial classes for reading, math, etc.

12. Each test is very important…
Colleges are starting to look at STAR test scores…
Some teachers – grade is based or impacted by your STAR test score.
Possible activities will be impacted.
Ski trip… ?

13. Last, But Not Least…
It is scientifically proven that students who get a good night’s sleep before a test and eat a good breakfast do significantly better than those who don’t!!

14. Last, But Not Least… The night before each test:
Go to bed EARLY & get lots of sleep!
The morning of each test:
Eat a GOOD breakfast!