The taking of the Texas STAAR tests begins next week.
STAAR stands for State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, which is the state's student testing program. The assessments are based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, which are the state curriculum standards.
Here's the schedule:
Tuesday, April 9
- Math, grades 5 and 8
- Writing, grades 4 and 7
Wednesday, April 10
- Reading, grades 5 and 8
- Math (makeup), grades 5 and 8
- Writing (makeup), grades 4 and 7
Thursday, April 11
- Reading (makeup), grades 5 and 8
Testing begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. at each campus.
Tips for parents in preparing their children for STAAR.
1. Make sure your child has taken any needed medication.
2. Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep before the test.
3. Try to make the morning of the test a pleasant one. Do not add to your child’s stress.
4. Get your child to school on time the day of the test.
5. Encourage your child to stay focused on the test, even if other students finish early.
6. Wish your child good luck each morning of the test. Tell your child that he/she is special and that you believe in him/her.
Test-taking tips for students
1. Approach the test with a positive attitude.
2. For writing prompts – be sure to write neatly and legibly. If the reader cannot read your answer, you lose!
3. Read each question carefully and think before you answer.
4. If you go blank, skip the question and go on. Be sure to come back to that same question later.
5. Don’t panic; there is no reward for being the first one done.
6. Relax, take slow, deep breaths.
For STAAR resources, click here.