1. Taking the Math SOL Test Testing Taking Hints from the Experts

2. Before the test… Get a good night’s sleep the night before the test. –This means at least 8 hours of sleep! Eat a good breakfast before the test. Be on time! Take a deep breath…try to relax and do your best.

3. Read! Read !! READ !!! – Read the directions for each question. – Read the entire question, compare all the answers and eliminate incorrect choices before choosing the correct answer. –When two-part answers are given, read carefully. BOTH parts must be correct for the choice to be right. –Watch out for questions that use the words “ NOT ” or “which is INCORRECT ”.

4. Answer the easy questions first! This way you will be sure to get them correct and you will have more time to spend on the harder questions. If you find a question very difficult, skip it and come back to it later. Make sure you answer ALL the questions.

5. Work Carefully Work slowly so you don’t make careless mistakes. Double-check your work after you solve each problem. –Did you read the problem carefully? –Is your answer logical (does it make sense)? –Are all your calculations correct? –Did you leave out any steps?

6. When to Estimate? If you are unsure how to estimate an answer, find the exact answer and select the closet choice. OR Before calculating the precise answer, sometimes it helps to make an estimate.

7. “I don’t know!” If you don’t know something… –Check the formula sheet for help/hints. –Eliminate obvious wrong answers. –Work/Check each problem on paper, not just in your head. –Draw a sketch.

8. “I still don’t know!” If your answer choice is not given, check that you understood the question. Look closely at figures and pictures when comparing them. You should only guess as a last resort and after you have narrowed your options down to 2 possible answers.

9. Finally Finished? Remember, you only get one shot at the Sixth Grade Math SOL Test! When you finish, take a few minutes to go back and check your answers.

10. You are really ready! We’ve spent all year preparing for this test. You’ve worked problems, taken notes/examples and studied for tests/quizzes. All the Math SOLs have been covered and you’ve had a chance to practice and develop the skills necessary to pass this test. You’ve even taken practice SOL and Benchmark Tests. YOU CAN DO THIS!