OAKS Prep

   It's that time of year again... OAKS testing has arrived! Mrs Dessert's class will start with our OAKS reading test on Monday, February 3 and go through February 6. We will have an hour each day, so everyone will have plenty of time to slow down and complete the test.

  This past week in class we have been preparing and building our stamina for the test. I have no doubt that all our students can meet or exceed on this test, it's just a matter of physical and mental preparation now. I know you all want what is best for your student, so I have included a few tips for parents and students and will reiterate what I have been telling the kids all week.
 

     TIPS FOR OAKS SUCCCESS:

 - Each day we take the test please ensure that your child gets to bed early the night before and has a good breakfast before the test. If your child eats at school, please remind them of how important this is, and remind them to grab their breakfast before coming to class. 

- We will also take a snack break before we head down to take the test, so if you would like to pack a healthy energy filled snack for them to eat before, please do! Bananas, oranges, granola bars, string cheese, etc are all great! 

 - Encourage your child to do their best and be a positive support for them. Too much pressure is never good, just encourage them to shine with the skills they already have. 

  - Remind your child that the OAKS test is NOT A RACE. We have plenty of time to get through the test, and they can have more if they don't finish in the time allotted. We would rather they take their time the first time, and not have to retake the test later. 

  - We have been working on our C.A.F.E. goals all year (making inferences, asking questions, using context clues to figure out new vocabulary, etc.) so please remind your child to use these skills while taking the test. Also, citing evidence is a big one too. If they can prove to themselves where they found the answer they can feel confident in their decision. 

  - Finally, all the students should have brought home the practice tests we went over in class. Help them to review these and see where they need to improve or celebrate their successes with them if they did well! I have added a link to some other practice tests if you would like to use those as a study tool. 

                                                        Link to Past OAKS Practice Tests

  This is a great group of kids with so many different skills and strengths. We are looking forward to a successful testing season with lots to celebrate. Good luck sixth graders! 

                                    Don't forget to check us out on the district website too!