Welcome to Marfa ISD!

    TAKS Test Taking Strategies

By Allison Ryan Scott, MJSHS Counselor

             Many students will be taking the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills test next week. Yes, the TAKS test. Performing well on the test is important for the students and the school district. The test is a learning experience, so each time a student performs well he/she increases the chances of performing well the following year.

            Preparation for the tests begin the first day of school, because the test material is based on what Texas teachers are required to teach in the classroom. Being prepared and knowing the material are keys to success. However, knowing some test taking strategies can help a student focus and reduce some test anxiety.

            Some general strategies include getting a good night sleep the night before (at least 7 hours) and eating breakfast. Also, arrive about 10 minutes early so that you have time to visit with friends and relax before finding your testing room. The TAKS tests are untimed so you have all the time you need. Don’t rush even if you see classmates finishing the test before you do. Take a breath, refocus and continue to take the time you need to answer the questions. If you feel yourself getting sleepy or distracted, ask to take a restroom break. Breathe deeply as you walk down the hallway. Drink some water. Refocus when you return to the classroom.

            As soon as you receive permission to start the test, find a blank page and write down anything you are afraid you may forget. This can include literary terms, math formulas, test strategies, or dates of events. This can take some pressure off and you can concentrate on solving problems without worrying that you may forget something.

            All TAKS tests are reading tests – yes, math and science, too. Students need to read for information. Take time to read the entire question and make sure you understand what is being asked. Underline key words such as not, area, volume. After reading through the questions, answer the ones you know; the ones you feel confident about answering. If you come to a difficult question, skip it, and come back to it later.

            When taking the math and science tests, use the formula charts and the answer choices to help you solve problems.  If you’re not sure what to do, work backwards using each answer choice to help find the solution. Sometimes drawing a picture or diagram can help you remember what to do. If you’re still not sure, make a mark by that question and move on to the next. You may find the solution when working on another problem. Make sure you work the problem all the way to the final solution. Eliminate illogical answers. At least two answer choices can be eliminated which increases the odds of selecting the correct answer.

            All charts and graphs contain answers. Read the title and all the words on the chart. Make sure you understand what information is provided and what is being asked.

            When taking the English Language Arts (ELA) tests, read the title and think about the subject. Read the questions so you know what to look for in the passage. Finally, read the entire passage underlining key words and phrases. Once again, when reading the questions, make sure you understand what is being asked. Also, when you select an answer ask yourself why you are choosing that one. You can find all the answers in the passages.

            When taking the writing portion of this test, read the essay prompt and jot down some ideas that you can use. Tell a great story. Write, write and write some more. You are telling a story so you want to include many details. Remember, there are several blank pages in the test booklet you can use to write a rough draft. Just don’t forget to write the final draft on the answer document. Proofread your essay and correct any mistakes. A dictionary and thesaurus are provided – use them to write an interesting and well-written essay.

            Finally, take your time and do your best.