ELA State Test Prep

Being that state tests are coming up soon after Pesach vacation, our more intense preparations have begun. We have been analyzing sample test questions and asking ourselves - about whom or what is the author asking? We need to be very sure we understand how to read the questions so that we can choose the best response!

There will be three parts to the test, taken over a three day period:

Part 1: Reading and answering text-based multiple choice questions

Part 2: Listening and responding to prompts with extended answers

Part3: Reading and responding to prompts with extended answers

These texts will include fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.There will be a need to understand and use graphic organizers (flow charts, web-charts) to explain the content, as well as prepare and plan for writing a comparative essay (a paragraph that compares two of the texts and includes the criteria that is asked).

As a class we've come up with  some test-taking tips and strategies that we will continue to add to as we move along.

Please keep in mind that while the tests are important, and diligence in preparing should definitely be promoted, pressure is most certainly not! Let's keep in mind that defining success only by these test scores is erroneous - the tests check certain limited areas and many factors come into play (including - but not limited to - how relaxed and focused your child is during the test).