Before The Test
Is it a good idea to stay up late the night before your test?
No, go to bed at your regular bed time.
Is the test timed?
No! You have all the time you need. Do not rush, even if you see other students finishing. We all work a a different pace.
Do you have to use the tools on TestNav?
Yes! The tools are there to help you take your test.
What does it mean to "slash the trash?"
We can eliminate or "trash" any choice that we know is an INCORRECT answer.
Can you skip a question and come back later?
No, in most tests TestNav will not allow you to move on if you haven't answered a question.
If you're unsure of the answer, use all of your test-taking strategies, make an educated guess and move on to the next!
True or False:
You should eat a protein-rich breakfast on test day.
True
Yes! It's a good idea to read everything more than once to make sure you understand.
Name one tool you may see on your Reading SOL.
Highlighter, pointer, eliminator, pencil, eraser, etc.
What does it mean to "jail the detail?"
To highlight, underline or circle the details in the questions.
This helps you focus on exactly what the question is asking.
If you are absent the day of the test, do you still have to take it?
Yes. You will be assigned a make-up date and time to take any tests you missed.
How should you dress the day of the test?
Wear what's comfortable! You may be sitting for a while in your own classroom, a lab, or somewhere else in the school.
It's a good idea to bring a jacket or hoodie in case you get cold. You can take if off if you're too warm as well.
What if I need a break?
Sometimes our bodies or our brains need a reset.
Raise your hand and ask to go to the restroom. You will be escorted by an adult to the restroom. This is a great time to stretch, get a quick drink of water, use the restroom, and go back in with a fresh mind!
Name one tool you may see on your Math SOL.
Highlighter, pointer, eliminator, ruler, pencil, eraser, etc.
What does "be slick and predict" mean?
This means to predict the answer to your question before you read the answer choices.
If your answer is there, it's likely correct. If it's not, you may need to go back and reread your passage or your question.
Is it normal to feel worried, anxious, or even excited about the SOL tests?
Yes! You may feel a variety of emotions leading up to the test and on testing day.
Remember, this is your time to shine! Show us what you know by trying your best. That's all we expect from you.
If you wake up sick on the day of your test, should you push yourself to come anyway?
No! Never come to school sick, even if it's your test day. You will not perform well if you're sick. Stay home and get better.
There will always be a make-up day!
Is it okay to guess at an answer to a question you are not sure about?
Yes! If you have used all of your test-taking strategies, it is fine to make an educated guess.
Which tool can you use when you see important words in a question or passage?
The highlighter tool will help you match important words in a question with information in the passage.
What does it mean to "keep on keeping on?"
If you get to a couple questions that you're not sure of, don't give up! Many SOL tests adapt to you! Keep trying your best.
Can I raise my hand if I need help?
Of course! While adults are limited on what type of help they can give to you, that's what they are there for!
Always ask, but don't be surprised if they can't help you find answers to your test.
Should your parents know what days your SOL tests are scheduled?
Yes! The school will communicate test dates with families.
Your parents can help to make sure you've had a good breakfast and you are at school on time.
You can also talk to them about any worries or feelings you have about the tests.
If the passage is really long, is it okay to just read the questions, and skim the passage to find you answers?
No! You need to read your passage completely!
After you've read your passage at least once, you will have a better idea of where to find your answers. But we cannot skip reading and expect to answer questions correctly.
How many tools can you use at once?
As many as you need!
Example: You may use the highlight to find important information, and the eliminator to "slash the trash."
What is the "plug it in" strategy?
Once you think you know your answer, "plug it in" to make sure it makes sense.
If so, you can choose this answer choice! If not, you may need to reread.
If you arrive at school a little late, are you still allowed to take the test?
Try your best to be on time!