How To Study and Prepare for a Test

1. Successful test takers know where the questions on a test come from. Use study guides to help you anticipate questions that will be asked on a test.
2. Be an active learner and study in an active way. The following help a child engage in their learning and studying: use highlighters, make study cards, use Post It Notes to identify important information, draw or diagram concepts (helpful for science concepts)
3. Help your child make the most our of their study time. Studying can be done on car rides, and waiting rooms. Study for a chunk of time, several days to a week before a test.
4. Look for support from other resources. Reach out to teachers, check out teacher websites, utilize notes and graphic organizers to prepare for tests.
5. Reflect on what works. Ask your child:

• "How do you know you have studied enough?"
• "How did you keep your focus while studying?"
• "How much time did you spend studying?"
• "What would you do different next time you prepare for a test?"

Please Note: Many students think that studying is "just" reading over notes. Students should be able to understand, explain and apply concepts. Especially in the area of math, students should be able to solve math problems and explain how they solved their problems. At this point in their school career, students should be studying several days to a week before the test. This will be a skill they need in high school, especially when preparing for mid terms and finals!

• Provide a place to study - Establish a work area where your child can spread out all his or her homework papers. Make sure your child has all the essential supplies. This area should be a quiet area with plenty of lighting.
• Help your child develop a system to keep track of important papers - Binders with dividers, folders for each subject work well.
• Make sure your child has and uses a planner/agenda - Have your child get into the habit of checking assignments off in their agenda when they  are completed. JP Case supplies our students with an Agenda in September. If is lost at any time in the school year, it should be replaced. The use of this Agenda is very beneficial to our students. At Hunterdon Central, students have to purchase their own agenda.
• Encourage your child to estimate how long each assignment will take to complete. - this helps your child develop a realistic schedule for completing their work, especially larger projects.