Study and Test Taking Strategies

1
Study and Test Taking Strategies

• Literacy Workshop
• Ms. Melgar
• December 13, 2004

2
General Test Taking Strategies

• Be well prepared do not wait until the last
  minute and cram
• Learn everything you can about what type of test
  you are taking (essay, multiple choice, etc.)
• Use class notes, textbooks, study guides, old
  quizzes to help you prepare

3
Reading Tests and Test Questions (pp 599-616)

• Before Reading
• Set a purpose what is the test question asking?
  What information is needed to answer it?
• Preview Review your notes the morning of the
  test preview the entire test as soon as it is
  passed out (READ THE DIRECTIONS!)
• Plan Look at the test questions mark the ones
  you think you know right away

4
Reading Tests and Test Questions

• During Reading
• Read with a purpose Read the passage (make
  notes and highlight if allowed) read the
  questions skim for answers
• Connect with the test anything you can relate
  to your own life will only help you remember and
  understand

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Reading Tests and Test Questions

• After Reading
• Pause and reflect leave time at the end of a
  test to review your answers did you leave any
  blank?
• Reread visual and think aloud for the most
  difficult questions
• Remember Review how you did on the test and WHY
  with yourself and/or a classmate

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Types of test questions
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Studying for Specific Types of Tests

• Science Tests
• Begin studying for science tests well in advance.
  Review class notes, handouts, and your textbook.
• When you receive the test, begin with a preview.
  Read and highlight (if possible) key words in the
  directions. Star the easiest questions and save
  the more challenging ones for last.
• Make diagrams to help you think through some
  questions.
• Make educated guesses if youre not certain of
  the answers.

• Math Tests
• Prepare for the test ahead of time by studying
  your notes and textbook
• Memorize any key rules and formulas youve
  covered in class
• During the test, work the easiest problems first.
• Use good test-taking techniques, such as plugging
  in the answers, visualizing, ruling out wrong
  answers, and trying easier choices first

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General test taking tips

• Eat breakfast but not a big one, especially if
  you are not used to eating breakfast.
• If you have 3 finals on one day without a break,
  ask the teacher of your second final if you may
  bring in a nutritious snack to eat after your
  final is complete.
• Do not plan on bringing headphonesbring a book,
  a newspaper, or something to study after you are
  done with your final.
• Get a good nights sleep. Cramming doesnt
  workreally!

9
Setting a Study Plan