Standardized Testing

Our state requires a yearly assessment so my kids test every year. It's just easier for me than keeping a portfolio. I also like the peace of mind that comes from knowing my boys can fill in bubbles. ;)

Unfortunately, I'm a little worried about Evan filling in bubbles. It's his first year testing and he has already decided that he's not doing it. I've got happy thoughts though. We'll go in with bribes and threats and lots of preparation and maybe, just maybe, he'll cooperate.

To that end, I've spent the past half hour, a ream of paper, and lots of expensive printer ink, printing out practice tests for him. I don't usually bother with test prep. Usually the boys don't even know about the test until the day before when I tell them they have to get to bed at a decent hour. They've always looked at it as a day off regular school and time spent with friends. As a bonus, they always score very well. I'm not worried about Evan's academics. I'm worried about his fear of the unknown. I hope a few days spent playing with these practice tests will make him long to color in bubbles for Miss Sue, his tester.

And ya know what??? I also printed some practice tests for the older boys. They really do look like fun to take and I'm curious if they really know all this stuff. I read through some of the 4th and 5th grade tests (this site only had up to 5th and I didn't want to bother searching more) and I'm not sure how *I* would score!