Test Stress

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Home : 2002 : May : 3

Test Stress
By Renee

I know how you feel. I'm in 4th and gave the writing, reading, and math portions of the state test. I felt confident that they knew everything they needed, but a couple of them needed more motivation to try their best.

I
used the little tricks like the last poster said, gave pep talks, and our principal did lots of things too. One thing I found that worked really well was to have two of the giant candy bars (the kind you can buy at Wal Mart for $1.00.Hershey Bars,etc.). I would put them up on the board and explain that if you used all of your strategies on the test and took your time you could get in

the candy drawing. As I was walking around monitoring I took note of who was using the strategies and they got to put their name in the candy bar drawing. I picked two names and they each got a giant candy. Sad to say, but some kids who aren't motivated intrinsically will do anything for candy!

Don't worry though. I think you will be proud at the effort they put out. I was a little worried before hand, but when I saw them giving it their all on test day, it made me feel really good. If you have a good relationship with your kids, they will try hard for themselves and for you.