Testing Tips

Items to Consider about Testing

Ú     Facility and Logistic Issues

      * Tests are timed. (provide timers or stop watches for each testing room)

      * Remove distractions from the testing area.                                              

      * Provide a well-lit work area.

      * Explain the testing process to parents and students.

      * Provide enough pencils, scratch paper, and graph paper (if needed).

      * Provide a testing preparation checklist for parents.

           1. When to be there, how to dress, what to bring, and how many days will be allotted for achievement testing.
           2. Make sure students get a good night’s sleep.                

      * Provide a breakfast or snack; avoid sugars and red food dye.

      * Allow for breaks each hour.

Ú     Emotional Issues

      * Each student is unique and needs to be assured of the fact that you are only looking for his best effort.

      * Communicate these goals to the student’s parents.

      * Don’t test if a student is emotionally distraught.

      * Reassure students that they can’t fail. These tests are only for curriculum placement. 

      * Allow at least one day for make up testing for students that have health issues or are absent. 

Ú     Health Issues

      * Don’t test students that are ill or have a headache.

      * If a student is on medication, evaluate each individual testing situation as to the proper timing for testing.

      * Accommodate handicapped students.

Ú     Issuing and Prescribing Tests

      * Obtain a clear idea of the student’s past learning and present functional grade level.

* Prescribe tests according to their level.

  (You don’t want to test students functioning more than three levels below Chronological Level.)

* Tell them what kind of questions you will answer and what kind of questions you will not answer during the tests. 

      * Answer questions about process and/or expectations.

      * Do not to answer questions regarding content.

      * Administer each section of the test one at a time according to the time limits outlined in the Examiner’s Manual.

Ú     Review Tests before Packaging Tests for Scoring

      * Make sure all pertinent information is filled in on each answer sheet.

      * Review actual test booklets or compuscan sheets. (Don’t send in incomplete tests.  Results may be skewed.)