Students brace for annual TCAP standardized test

It?s spring again and that means it?s also time for the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program, or TCAP as it?s more commonly known.

The TCAP test is a state-mandated exam that is given in 900 elementary schools across Tennessee. The test is for grades 3-8 and is an achievement test composed of multiple-choice questions to measure skills in reading, language arts, math, science, and social studies.

The results are reported to parents, teachers, and administrators. The results are used by schools to determine where a child needs more instruction, and by the state to determine if a school is meeting Tennessee?s standards for teaching.

Schools have a three-week window to administer the test which takes two to three days. This year?s tests will be given between April 10 and April 28.

In order to get students ready for TCAP, schools use ThinkLink to gauge each child?s progress.

?If we determine a child needs help in an area,? said Morrison Elementary guidance counselor Barbara George, ?we can focus more on that area with that child. Children are at different levels, so we use ThinkLink to figure out where they need the most attention.?

ThinkLink is given three times throughout the school year, usually in September, December and March.

Practice tests are usually sent home or performed during school to help children get familiar with the test format and allow them to get comfortable with the test. For parents who want their child to have more practice, there are several Web sites available.

Other hints parents can pass along to help children with the TCAP tests include:

? Relax ? Inform children it?s normal to feel anxious but this is only one test out of many that measure performance.

? Listen ? Stress the importance of listening to and reading directions carefully.

? Work quickly ? Because these tests are timed, tell children not to spend too much time on questions. If they are unsure of an answer, move on to the next question. If there is extra time, they can go back to that question.

? Pause and think ? After finishing the test, go back to the questions you skipped. Being stumped by a question happens to everyone. Inform children that if this happens, it is best to read it again. If they are still in doubt about the answer, rule out answers it can?t be and choose between the others. If this doesn?t help, never leave a question blank. There is a one-in-four chance of getting it right by darkening one of the circles.

A good night?s sleep and a healthy breakfast are essential to concentration during the day. Children need nine to 10 hours of sleep.

Proctors are mandatory for each class. As well as helping in the classroom, the proctor has to take the tests to the office or guidance counselor?s office as soon as the tests are finished. If anyone would like to volunteer to be a proctor, please contact your area school.