What You Need to Know About
End of Grade and End of Course Tests
Standardized tests help educators determine which skills students have mastered and which ones they still need to be taught. Elementary & middle school students will be taking End of Grade (EOG) tests in May. Some middle school and all high school students will be taking End of Course (EOC) tests as well. The CMS Family & Community Services Department/Parent University would like to offer a few tips for families to help students succeed during test time.
Before the Test
· Encourage your child to get a good night’s sleep before the test.
· Provide your child with a nutritious breakfast before the test.
· Minimize outside activities during the week of testing. This will help reduce stress at home.
· Set your alarm a little early each morning and make your time together at home pleasant and encouraging.
· Make sure your child arrives at school on time.
· Give your child a hug and let them know you have confidence in them!
Test Taking Strategies – During the Test
· A blank response is an incorrect response. Try to answer all of the questions and don’t leave any blank.
· Listen carefully to the instructions from the teacher and read the directions thoroughly.
· Pay close attention to wording. Some words like NO, NOT, NEVER, and ALWAYS can change the whole meaning to a question.
· Use the process of elimination. Eliminate any answers you know are incorrect and select the BEST answer from those remaining.
· Use your time wisely. Stay focused on the test, even if other students finish early. Don’t rush through the test and use any extra time to review your answers.
Important Facts for Parents to Remember
· *Testing period for EOG Tests is May 10th – 13th for grades 3rd – 8th
· The following tests are offered:
o Reading EOG (Grades 3rd – 8th)
o Math EOG (Grades 3rd – 8th)
o Science EOG (Grades 5th & 8th)
· Students enrolled in the following courses are required to take the North Carolina EOC tests: Algebra I, Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry, English I, Geometry, Physical Science, and Physics.
· *All EOC tests will be administered during the last week (block schedule) or the last two weeks (traditional schedule) of the instructional period.
Proctors are always needed for the tests. If you would like to volunteer, contact the school directly.
Check out other great resources at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction website http://www.ncpublicschools.org/accountability/parents/