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Preparing for the Iowa Test: The Do's and Don'ts |
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What is the Iowa Test?The Iowa Test of Basic Skills, commonly known as the ITBS, is a standardized test developed by the University of Iowa and is administered in conjunction with "The Iowa Testing Programs." The most widely offered Iowa Tests are the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS) and the Iowa Assessments.Both tests are achievement exams, which examine a child's knowledge of what they've learned in school and aren't cognitive or IQ tests. What is the Purpose?The ITBS is a screening tool administered to all grade levels that can be used to determine whether or not a student is qualified for gifted and talented programs. The test can also measure a student's academic skills and identify areas in which they may need additional help.Iowa Test levels 5-8 are administered to students from Kindergarten through 2nd grade, while levels 9-14 are given to students from 3rd to 8th grade. It is used to measure students' abilities in reading, math, and language arts and can help identify areas in which they need additional help. When is the Test Offered?The ITBS is typically administered in the fall and winter, though it can be given at any time during the school year.How to prepare for the Iowa TestAt Bright Education, you can utilize our practice materials as they assist students in gaining confidence and boosting test scores on the Iowa Assessments (ITBS). The materials are both cost- effective and thorough, covering all major disciplines: English / Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Science.Students are provided with instant results and feedback after taking tests and can view reports that include comprehensive charts and graphs tracking progress. Practice testing helps promote student achievement and growth. If you're preparing to take the ITBS, it's important to know both what to do and what not to do in order to maximize your score. This article will give you a rundown of the top tips for taking the ITBS test straight from our experts at Bright Education.
Do: Familiarize yourself with the ITBS FormatThe ITBS is a standardized test that is used to measure students' abilities in reading, math, and language arts. The exam has ten core sections-reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, vocabulary, spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and computation.The test is designed to measure students' abilities in the grade level for which they are taking the test. For example, the ITBS for 5th grade measures students' proficiency in reading, math, and language arts at the 5th-grade level. The exam generally takes between 3 to 3.5 hours to complete, with a total of 270-340 questions depending on grade level. It is important to understand the format and content of the ITBS before you take the test. This will help you know what to expect and how to best prepare for the test. Do: Take Timed Practice TestsA great way to prepare for the ITBS is to take practice tests. Practice questions will help you get used to the test format and help you identify any areas that you need to focus more on. Try to mimic the test conditions as closely as possible. This means timed tests and only using the allotted breaks.You don't want to realize while taking the test that you needed to get started on the writing section 20 minutes ago and that you've taken up too much time trying to complete the multiple-choice assessment. Timing yourself as you prep for any standardized test is an excellent idea because the last thing you want on test day is to be worrying about finishing on time. Do: Make a Study Schedule and Stick to it.If you want to do well on the ITBS, you must put in the effort and study for it. Making a study schedule and sticking to it is one ofthe most effective methods to ensure that you get enough studying time. Make a timetable for yourself and stick to it no matter what. Determine how many hours you'll need to study each week and make sure that time is scheduled specifically for learning. Bright Education makes this step simple by providing you with all of the test materials you'll need, so you won't have to waste any time creating a study strategy. To guarantee that the information provided by Bright Education is utilized, plan to set aside 30 minutes to 2 hours each day to study. A reasonable rule of thumb is to allot for taking at least one practice exam a week.
Do: Compare your test scores to other students with Exclusive Reports from Bright EducationBright Education offers an exclusive National Percentile Comparison Report at the end of each practice test you take. This extensive report compares the scores of individual students with other students taking the same standardized tests in the same grade level across the nation. It is an excellent tool for students, parents, and teachers alike to see how well a student is doing comparatively in a particular topic area.Do: Arrive PreparedThe test will be administered at your school, so if you do forget anything, you will be able to ask your teacher or classmate for it. However, in order to eliminate all possible stress, it's important to come with all materials, such as a few number two pencils, erasers, and a snack, just in case.Do: Develop a Test-Taking StrategyThere is no one right way to take the ITBS. However, it is important to develop a strategy before you take the test. This will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time on the test.Some tips for developing a test-taking strategy include: -Reading the question carefully before answering -Answering the easiest questions first -Circling/highlighting any important information in a question or passage
Do: Use the elimination processIn standardized tests, the elimination process can be a helpful way to arrive at the correct answer when you are unsure. The processinvolves looking at the answer choices and eliminating any clearly wrong answers. Narrowing down your options makes it easier to choose as there is only one correct answer. It's much easier to choose between two possible solutions than four. You don't want to get stuck on one answer because the goal is to answer as many questions as possible. Test completion will increase your chances of getting a high score because an unanswered question is an automatic zero. Don't: Cram the Night BeforeIt is tempting to try to cram for the ITBS the night before the test. However, this is not an effective way to prepare. In fact, it is likely to do more harm than good.The best way to prepare for the ITBS is to study a little bit every day. This will help you become familiar with the test format and content. It will also help you develop a test-taking strategy. Bright Education offers a comprehensive ITBS prep course that includes practice tests, study guides, and online resources. Don't: Skip Breakfast on Test DayIt is important to eat a healthy breakfast before any exam. This will help you stay focused and alert during the test.Ideas for a healthy breakfast include: -Oatmeal with raisins and nuts -Banana and peanut butter sandwich -Yogurt with berries and granola -Scrambled eggs with toast
Don't: Stress OutIt is normal to feel some anxiety before taking the ITBS. However, it is important to keep your anxiety in check. Too much stress can impact your performance on the test.Some tips for reducing stress include: -Deep breathing exercises - Visualization exercises -Taking breaks during the test Do: Stay HydratedIt is important to stay hydrated; this will help you stay focused and alert.Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated. You can also bring a water bottle into the testing room with you. Do: Check Your WorkOnce you have finished the test, it is essential to check your work. This will help you identify any mistakes you may have made and give you an opportunity to correct them.
The best way to prepare for the ITBS is to study. This will help you become familiar with the test format and content. It will also help you develop a test-taking strategy. The Bright Education ITBS test prep course is comprehensive and includes practice tests, study guides, and online resources. |
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