Local schools prepare students for state testing
CROCKETT COUNTY, Tenn. — Local schools are preparing students for upcoming state testing, with educators focusing on strategies to reduce test anxiety and help students perform their best.
Test anxiety is becoming more common among students, according to Crockett County educators. For some, just seeing a test can feel overwhelming.
“A lot of kids now have test anxiety, and when they see a test, they get so worked up by all the words and numbers,” said Ellary Brewster, an algebra one and pre-calculus teacher. “So, just teaching basic test-taking skills will help them.”
Creating a positive testing environment
Heather Harris, assistant principal and test coordinator, said the school approaches testing with a focus on reducing student stress.
“We approach the test in a positive way and try to create an environment where students do not feel anxious about it,” Harris said.
Research shows test anxiety and stress is ranked as the primary reason causing students to freeze, panic, suffer memory blanks and experience physical symptoms like rapid heart rate, preventing them from recalling learned material.
Crockett County Middle School teachers said they are reviewing for the state test with games, quizzes and other activities. This year’s theme is EPIC — Empowering Potential in Crockett County.
“It has guided everything we’ve done all year,” said Raven Powell, a sixth grade ELA teacher.
Preparation tips for parents
Angie Johnson, a sixth grade social studies teacher, said the TCAP test is a way for students to show what they already know.
“We encourage students to get plenty of sleep — about eight to ten hours a night — and we recommend that parents limit device use,” Johnson said. “It’s also extremely important that students eat a good breakfast the morning of the test. We ask parents to avoid giving them too much sugar, as it can cause an energy crash. Preparing the night before — by packing backpacks and laying out clothes — can help students get to school on time, which is very important.”
Schools also continue to ask parents not to schedule any appointments, as that can interfere with students being prepared for the test.
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