Supplies
True or False: I need to bring my own pencils for testing day.
False - you may only use the PSSA pencils provided by Disston.
What do I do with my phone on testing day?
You must give it to your teacher as soon as you enter the room. Phone must be turned off completely and will be put in a bag, labeled with your name and locked in the closet while you test.
Can I go into the hallway to get something from another student/class/teacher?
Nope
How many sections/days of ELA testing ?
3 days
What is the first thing you should look at, especially on the ELA portion of the test?
True or False: I can bring something to color / draw after I'm finished my test.
False. You may only
1. Read a book from home
2. Take a nap
Can I keep the scratch paper when I am done with my test?
No, all scratch paper must be handed in with the test booklets.
True or False: Once I am finished my test and hand it in to the teacher, I can get my phone back.
False - no phone will be returned until ALL tests are finished, collected and returned to the office.
How many times can I go to the restroom during the testing period?
0, none, zip, zero, never, not at all
How many sections of Science?
2
What are 3 things you can do at home in order to be ready for test day?
1. Get a good night's sleep
2. Have a healthy breakfast
3. Use the bathroom before coming to school
Who can help me if I am not sure of my answer?
No one, you are on your own so use your test taking strategies.
True or False: I can keep my headphones / earbuds on as long as they are turned off so that I can block out other sounds.
False - everything must be off and stored somewhere away from you.
Where should I sit for testing ?
Wherever your teacher asks you to sit.
Someone is at the door. If I sit close by, should I open it?
Absolutely not. You must remain in your seat at all times. The teacher will open door, answer the phone, etc.
How many sections of Math?
2
What is meant by "manage your time"?
If you are really stuck on a question and you've used all the other strategies, take your best guess and move on. DO NOT waste time if you really have no idea what the answer is.
What can I keep on or in my desk during testing?
ONLY testing materials handed out by the teacher. No food, drink, toys, markers, etc can be on you desk and the inside of the desk must be EMPTY.
What can you bring to keep you busy after you've finished the test?
A book to read. That's it, nothing else.
I am completely finished with my test, however others are still working. What can I do?
1. Read a book you brought from home.
2. Take a nap.
Fire Drill! If we are testing, what should we do?
If the alarm rings, we must react just like we do for any other fire drill. Leave all materials etc. on your desk. Safety first!
What are 3 types of questions you will see during testing?
1. Multiple Choice
2. Open ended
3. Text Dependent Analysis (TDA)
I am not sure about an answer to an open ended question. What should I do?
You should try to answer the best you can - do not leave anything blank.
Ooops! I forgot to do the open ended Math question on yesterday's test. What can I do?
Nothing
Once you finish the test, and hand it in to the teacher, you may NOT go back to any previous sections. Be sure to review all your answers before turning in your test each day.
True or False: I should bring my own calculator with a solar power option for the Math testing days.
False - you will only be allowed to use the school provided calculators.
It's too hot (or cold), what should I do?
Be sure to dress in appropriately - take your hoodie off if it's hot, put it on if you are cold.
I have a serious reason to see the nurse during testing. What do I do?
Raise your hand to tell teacher.
Wait for another adult to escort you to the nurse's office.
On testing days, what time will we be testing?
9:00 - 11:00 AM
Crossing off all the answers you know are incorrect.
I overslept and didn't get to school until 9:10 AM. Where do I go?
Go to the office for a late slip and you will be sent to a 1st or 2nd grade class until all testing is finished.