Jr. takes these tests very seriously. We're proud of him. Every year, he makes the decision himself to go to bed early and eat a healthy breakfast. Of course we would make sure he did if he didn't, but last evening he came up and gave us an early 'good-night'. It was only 8:00, so I asked if he felt ok and he said, "I feel great. I want to feel great for FCAT tomorrow also. I want to do good on the test." He has done this every year, even in elementary school. We're quite proud of him for that. He has always done well on the FCATs, but every year he worries. I ask him how he feels about how he did and he says, "Good, very good." So I tell him not to worry.
That is odd that it all boils down to this one test. I feel bad for your neice snookerman. Too bad she can't take it again. That doesn't seem right.
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FCAT Tips
1. Make sure your child attends school regularly. Remember that tests reflect the overall achievement of your child. The more often the child is in a learning situation, the more likely he/she will do well on tests.
2. Give your child encouragement. Praise him/her for the things done well throughout the year. A child who is afraid of failing is more likely to make a mistake.
3. See that your child has a well-rounded diet. A healthy body leads to a healthy, active mind.
4. See that your child completes homework assignments. Homework supports classroom instruction and can help your child increase his/her comprehension of the classroom work.
5. Meet with your child’s teacher(s) as often as possible to discuss your child’s progress. Parents and teachers should work together to benefit the child.
6. Ask the teacher(s) to suggest activities for you to do at home with your child. Such activities can help your child improve his/her understanding of school work.
7. Make sure your child is well rested on school days. Children who are tired are less likely to pay attention in class or to handle the demands of classwork and tests.
8. Try not to be overly anxious about test scores. Too much emphasis on test scores can be upsetting to children.
9. Find out which tests your child will take and for what purposes. The school principal and counselor should provide you with a schedule of testing for the year and explain the use of the tests.
10. Make sure your child arrives on time for school.
11. See that your child dresses comfortably. Students should wear clothes that are comfortable and appropriate for the weather.
12. If your child wears a hearing aid or glasses, be sure he/she remembers to use them during all testing sessions.
13. Make sure your child receives any necessary test taking accommodations.
14. Remember, make sure that your child is well rested and has a healthy breakfast on the day of the
test.
From the Florida Dept. of Education