Prepping for Tests

The Lakeland Catholic school, Santa Fe Catholic High School, will soon offer a series of standardized tests for its students. On April 8th, the ACT will be presented followed by the ACT ASPIRE on April 25 for its ninth and tenth graders. May 6th will be dedicated to SAT testing. These exams determine college readiness and are also a factor on whether some universities will accept students. In other words, the better the score, the higher the likelihood that a student will be able to attend his or her university of choice. Preparing for these exams is easier with a plan. Read below to learn how to approach standardized tests.Practice ExamsOnline practice ACTs, ACT ASPIREs, and SATs are only a click away. Khan Academy has a free complete SAT prep exam with feedback for areas that require remediation. ACT offers a full test prep course online for a fee.TutoringStudents interested in boosting their scores may wish to meet with a tutor. Understanding the correct method to take an exam can mean the difference between a passing score and a stellar score. Writing complete essay responses, learning how to dissect multiple choice questions, and relying on knowledge rather than reading the responses to make a quick decision are all situations tutors can work through with your child.Meet the NeedsIn order for your child to be in peak mental condition, he or she needs to have all basic needs met. If a student is hungry, thirsty, tired, worried, or ill, focusing on the exam is difficult. Ensure your child eats a healthy breakfast and sleeps solidly the night before the exam.Know Weak PointsIf your child has trouble with division, work through a series of math problems that pinpoint that area of concern. Practice enhances memory as well as skill.Critical Thinking SkillsTeach your child to think critically. Work through problems together, thinking up a variety of answers and finding which one works best. Applying knowledge to something new is critical thinking, so doubling a recipe shows your child understands basic multiplication skills and halving a recipe proves division skills. You can apply critical thinking skills throughout your routine every day. Never settle for “I don’t know;” find the answer.With the correct training and mindset, your child can master any standardized test. Be sure to help with studying, and keep a positive attitude. A good night’s sleep the night before and a balanced breakfast the morning of the test will ensure your child can focus on the exam, not on hunger or weariness. The Diocese of Orlando’s Lakeland Catholic schools will give your child every advantage to prepare for the exam beforehand. Contact the Diocese at 407-246-4800 to ask which tests are offered at your child’s school. Our blogs explain many strategies on how to assist your young scholar with homework and studying for exams throughout the year.