Helpful Test-Taking Strategies in Elementary Language Arts

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Show Notes:

As spring approaches, both teachers and students look forward to warmer weather and the excitement of summer. But there’s one big thing that brings anxiety and overwhelm this time of year - standardized testing. 

Those two little words can strike fear in teachers due to the high stakes involved with scores that influence decisions at the state, district, and school levels. Naturally, this puts pressure on you to prepare your students to perform at their best. When I first started teaching, I didn’t know how to do this effectively, which is why I want to give you the tools you need to feel confident in teaching your students test-taking strategies.

This episode is kicking off a four-part series on simple, practical ways to help your students feel prepared, empowered, and less anxious about standardized tests. Today, I’m sharing five practical test-taking strategies specifically for English Language Arts assessments. Each of these tips will give you a jump-start on your test prep and teach students how to manage the test, and navigate answering both multiple choice and short answer questions. 

By intentionally preparing students with these strategies well in advance, you’ll help them build the skills they need to succeed on test day. And remember, when you feel confident, positive, and in control, your students will pick up on that energy too. Don’t forget to tune in next week for more test prep strategies, and if you want additional support, join The Classroom Management Club for even more resources!

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• Why students need time, exposure, and practice in order to feel prepared for taking a standardized test.
• The importance of having a conversation with your students on why you’re practicing and preparing for the test in advance. 
• 5 simple and practical test-taking strategies that help your students answer a variety of questions on a standardized test.
• A bonus test-taking strategy that focuses on bringing in fun and celebration into the testing season.

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode: 

• Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset
• Check out more multiple choice test-taking strategies here and here!
• Grab your Growth Mindset Bookmarks from my TPT store.
• Download the free Growth Mindset Bookmarks. 
• Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms
• Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant.
• Enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card by leaving a review for Beginning Teacher Talk on Apple Podcasts!
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram
• Follow Dr. Lori on Facebook
• Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• Ultimate Student Engagement: 5 Positive, Easy, & Creative Ways to Get & Keep Your Students’ Attention
• 5 Great Ways to Spice Up Boring Curriculum & Increase Engagement
• What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Teacher’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety
• Creative Strategies for Ultimate Student Engagement in Your Elementary Classroom: Part One
• Ultimate Student Engagement in Your Elementary Classroom: Part Two

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