We Are Officially in Test Prep Mode!
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
Friend… we are in it!
We are knee deep in test prep season, and I know you feel it too.
We are still teaching our curriculum, still trying to stay aligned and intentional, but we have now layered in more focused, strategic test prep to make sure our students are as ready as possible. It feels like we are doing double the work in the same amount of time.
Small groups are happening during class.
After-school tutoring is in full swing.
Data is being looked at from every angle.
And somehow, we are trying to keep students engaged, confident, and not overwhelmed.
It is a lot.
What It Looks Like on My End
I am actually getting ready to work with about 150 students in a two-day test strategy workshop, and I have been putting a lot of thought into how to make it meaningful and not just another “sit and get” experience.
We are starting with clear rules and objectives, so students know exactly what to expect.
Then we are jumping into a short video on Greek and Latin roots, followed by an activity where students respond on whiteboards. I love using whiteboards because it keeps everyone involved and thinking at the same time.
After that, we are moving into a reading passage using an I do, we do, you do approach so students can see the thinking, practice it with support, and then try it on their own.
Throughout the entire workshop, we are using strategies from my test-taking tips handout so they have something concrete they can take with them and actually use.
And of course, we are ending with a Kahoot review game because middle schoolers will always show up for a little competition and fun.
Also, let’s be honest. Treats will be involved. And yes, stickers too, because even in middle school, stickers are still a big deal.
I Know You Are Doing the Same
I have a feeling your classroom looks very similar right now, no matter what grade or subject you teach.
You are reviewing.
You are reteaching.
You are encouraging students who are trying and gently pushing the ones who are not.
You are doing everything you can with the time you have.
And it never quite feels like enough, even though it really is.
The Pressure Is Real!
As a teacher and a coach, this time of year always brings a certain level of stress for me.
I want my students to do well.
I want them to feel confident.
I want all of the hard work they have put in to show.
And I know I am not alone in that feeling.
We have about three to four weeks before testing, and we are doing everything we can. We are working with students during the day, after school, and even reaching out to parents for additional support.
It is all hands on deck!
Giving Myself a Little Grace
Because of that, I have made a decision for myself during this season.
On the weekends, I am going to rest. As much as I can, I am stepping away from the stress, the overthinking, and the constant “what else can I do” thoughts. I have to remind myself that I am already doing a lot, and I cannot pour from an empty cup. I am choosing to trust the work. I am choosing to believe in my students. And I am choosing to have faith that the results will reflect the effort.
A Little Support for You Too
If you are in the middle of test prep and looking for something simple and helpful for your students, I have created test-taking tips handouts that break strategies down in a way that is easy for students to understand and actually use.
One is specific to the FAST (Florida) test, and the other can be used for any state ELA Reading test.
You can find them here if they would support you and your students.
We Are Almost There
If you are feeling the pressure right now, just know you are not alone. We are all doing the best we can with the time we have, hoping our students walk into that test feeling prepared and confident.
Keep showing up.
Keep encouraging your students.
Keep doing what you know works.
We are almost there.
In this together,
Nicky B. 💗
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