Schedule/Supplies
What test are we taking next week?
ELA PSSA
How many sections does the ELA test have?
3
True or False: You can highlight and take notes during the ELA PSSA.
TRUE. But don't forget to make sure you get all your answers onto the online test!
What can you do if you finish your ELA test early?
Put your head down or read FICTION or MAGAZINE for pleasure.
True or False. The proctor can read an ELA question or a TDA prompt to you.
False. The proctor cannot read any part of the ELA test. However, we can read parts of the science and math tests if you ask!
What should you do the night before the test days?
Go to bed early and get good sleep.
How many days will you have to do multiple choice questions during the test?
3
If you don't know an answer after you've tried all of your strategies, what should you do?
Take your best guess. Questions that are left blank are counted as incorrect, so you should always make an educated guess.
Who will be your PSSA proctor?
Your homeroom teacher, or Mrs. Hake and Mrs. Waldrup.
True or False. The proctor can tell you the meaning of a word in the passage.
FALSE. The proctor can't help you with a question like this.
What should you do the morning of the PSSA tests?
Eat a good breakfast. (Will also accept, have a good attitude or other positive actions.)
How many TDAs will you have to write?
2
What should you do if you want to skip a question and go back to it?
Mark it on the test to remind you to come back to it later. Don't let a difficult question stop you from moving forward. If you get frustrated or confused, skip the question to save it for later. DON'T FORGET to go back to it and at least take a guess if you don't know the answer.
How much time do you have to take the ELA PSSA?
As much as you need.
True or False. It is okay to talk about the testing process with your family.
TRUE! You may discuss the testing process or concerns with your family according to the Code of Conduct for Test Takers. You should not discuss the questions that were on the test.
charged computer, water bottle, pencils,
How many multiple choice questions are there on the entire ELA PSSA?
Consult booklet
Name two ways to get the best possible score on a TDA essay.
Answer the question clearly.
Include multiple pieces of evidence.
Explain how the evidence supports the answer.
Include an introduction and conclusion.
Organize your essay with paragraphs and transition words.
Edit your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Stay focused on the question.
What time will the PSSA start on testing days?
9:15am
What will be collected before testing begins?
Cell phones, smart watches or any electronics aside from your school computer. Consider leaving them at home that day if you can, or be prepared to put them in my basket to be brought to the office during the test.
What happens if you are absent on a day of testing?
You will have to make it up the day your return. This might mean taking two tests in one day.
On which days next week will the ELA PSSA be?
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday.
Name two strategies you can use to determine the best answer on an ELA multiple-choice question
Answers vary.
Go back into the text.
Process of elimination.
Skip and come back later.
Use information from other questions to help you.
Which choice is not like the others?
What do you do if you need more time?
Ask for it! You will get as much time as you need. If you need more time after lunch, you will be able to eat lunch and continue afterwards. So take your time!
Name an action that is against the Code of Conduct for Test Takers.
Answers vary.