Before the Test
How have your prepared for the big test all year at school?
By staying focused on teaching and learning
Will there be any talking during the test?
No talking. The test administrator will briefly talk to give out directions at the beginning.
What happens if I'm absent for one of the STAAR testing days?
You will make up the section of the test you missed when you return to school on a make-up day.
What is the correct name for the big test?
The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) test.
What can I do to prepare myself for testing?
Read daily, complete my classwork during class or as homework, and continue to do my best every day
What is considered a healthy breakfast?
Something nutritious, not too sweet or too heavy.
What type of materials will I need for the test?
Each student will receive a test ticket for each STAAR test section to use with their chromebooks, scratch paper (IF REQUESTED), and a pencil.
When will my test results come back and I find out how I did?
The 6th grade student scores will come back later during the Summer. We don't know if they'll be counted against you to pass 6th grade yet.
What subjects will I be tested on?
6th Grade - Reading/ELA, Math
What happens if I get nervous right before the test begins?
Close your eyes and take some big deep breaths.
What time should you go to bed the night before each STAAR test?
Between 8:00 and 9:00 pm.
Will I be allowed to use a calculator or cell phone during testing?
No use of electronic devices or calculators are allowed during testing.
What sections of the test must I pass to go on to the next grade?
6th grade - Reading
6th grade - Math
Why do you take the STAAR?
To see what you have learned and how well you have mastered the standards of Texas (TEKS).
Is the test going to be on my level?
Some questions may be easy and some may be more difficult. There will also be field questions on the test that don't count against your score (But you don't know what or where they are in your test!)
What happens if I arrive to school late or after the test has already begun?
If you arrive after the test has begun, you will be sent to the library, cafeteria, or activity room until after that testing session has ended. You will then be tested later on that day by another teacher in the building.
How much time will I have for each section of the test?
You may have the entire school day to complete the test.
What are the test results used for?
To see if you should move on to the next grade and to see how well your teacher is teaching you.
What are the testing dates?
6th - 4/26: ELA/Reading and 5/3: Math
What is the most important thing I need to do on test day?
Listen and follow directions carefully. Take your time and read the questions and answers carefully.
When should students take restroom breaks?
Before the test begins. You will be allowed to go during the test, but you will lose time if you interrupt your session. Also, you can only exit the room two times total for either the bathroom or water.
Where will I record my answers?
This is an online test so every student will use their chromebook to complete the test.
What should I do over the summer to prepare me for the next grade and school year?
Practice reading every day and don't forget your math facts over the summer.
What type of questions will I have on the test?
Multiple choice (This includes multi-select, drop-down options, and Part A / Part B questions), short constructed response, and a writing component through the extended constructed response.
Will I still be able to use test taking strategies on the computer?
Yes, the online test is set up with all of the tools such as underlining, highlighting and more. You will also be able to go back and review the passage as often as needed.