National Heritage Academies Share Strategies for Success in Standardized Testing

Navigating Standardized Testing: Proven Strategies from NHA Educators

As the season for standardized testing unfolds, educators at National Heritage Academies® (NHA) have come forward to provide invaluable insights aimed at enhancing students' performance. These educators emphasize that while standardized tests may not be favored by students, they play a crucial role in determining college opportunities, scholarship eligibility, and early educational placements. Thus, understanding how to approach these assessments is essential for fostering success.

Shifting Perspectives

Cassandra Johnson, a math teacher at Grand River Preparatory High School, highlights the importance of reframing standardized testing as a positive opportunity rather than a daunting obstacle. She notes that when students strive to achieve their best, they keep doors open for diverse future possibilities. "Standardized tests are opportunities to showcase knowledge to oneself, parents, and teachers," Ms. Johnson asserts. "They are gateways to scholarships and college acceptance, crucial for those unsure about their future career paths."

Effective Preparation Strategies

Together with James Lunga, the Dean of High School at Grand River Prep, Johnson offers a series of tried-and-true strategies to help students conquer the fears associated with standardized tests. One of their primary recommendations is to adopt a structured approach to test preparation, advising students to start about two to three months prior to the test day.

Practicing with previous tests is essential for becoming familiar with the test format and pacing, they emphasize. Students are encouraged to take diagnostic tests to pinpoint their strengths and weaknesses, allowing for a more targeted study plan leading up to the exam. Lunga highlights that steady and spaced practice over time often yields better results than cramming in the days before the test.

Time Management and Test-Taking Techniques

Effective time management is another crucial aspect of test-taking success. Johnson and Lunga suggest that students should make full use of the time allotted for each section, encouraging them to double-check their answers and revisit tricky questions if time permits. Furthermore, taking breaks during the test can offer much-needed mental relief. Simple activities like stretching or walking around the classroom can help reset focus for the next section of the exam.

Moreover, the educators advocate for various techniques to tackle challenging questions, such as diagramming problems, annotating test materials, and systematically eliminating wrong answer choices. Johnson believes that mastering these strategies is fundamental for students, stating, "Even those who struggle with key concepts can perform well on these tests due to their structure. Multiple-choice questions and problem contexts can be navigated more effectively with the right tools."

The Role of Parents

Parental involvement also plays a pivotal role in a student’s success during standardized testing. Johnson and Lunga encourage parents to convey the significance of these exams to their children. Lunga points out that some students may underestimate the weight of these tests, resulting in consequences later in their academic journey. Engaging in supportive discussions about the tests can help students recognize their importance without feeling overwhelmed by pressure.

"These tests do not define a student's worth, but they provide valuable insights into their academic progress," Lunga notes. "Framing conversations around the idea that students need to do their best—not necessarily be the best—empowers them and allows parents to better support their readiness."

Conclusion

In summary, as the standardized testing period nears, the insights and strategies shared by educators from National Heritage Academies can serve as a roadmap for students aiming for success. These collaborative efforts between educators and parents, practical test-taking strategies, and a positive mindset pave the way for scholars at NHA to approach standardized testing with confidence and clarity, unlocking future opportunities for growth and achievement.

For more information on National Heritage Academies, a network of tuition-free public charter schools serving over 68,000 students across nine states, visit nhaschools.com.