We answered lots of third grade questions on Thursday as we prepared for the first test session. I will write the answers here so you have a clear picture of what the next few days will be like.
1. There will be three testing sessions:
Monday 8:45 - This is a traditional ELA MCAS session, similar to the tests third graders in past years have taken. This test is designed to be one hour, but the students can use the entire school day to complete it if they need. (This doesn't typically happen.)
Tuesday 8:45 - This is a shortened version of the traditional ELA MCAS.
This test session is designed to be 35 minutes, but the students can use the entire school day to complete it if they need.
Wednesday 8:45 - This is a PARCC-like version of the test. This test is strictly timed. Most students have 60 minutes to complete it. Special education students and English Language Learners will be given extended time to complete this test if necessary.
2. I understand that many of you are celebrating a holiday today. Please try to be sure students go to bed at a reasonable hour - by 8:00 is ideal.
3. Most students will complete the test in our classroom. On Thursday, we moved the desks into rows to prepare. Some students have special accommodations and will take the test in a small group outside of the classroom.
4. Testing proctors are not able to answer student questions during testing sessions. Proctors are not allowed to pronounce a word or tell the meanings of any words.
5. If students are stuck on a question, they should skip it and move on to the next question. They should go back to each skipped question and make a guess if they are still unsure.
6. Students will be provided with two #2 pencils in case one breaks during the test.
7. When test takers complete the day's session, they can read, color or complete puzzle pages silently at their desks. They will be provided with all of the necessary materials before the testing session begins.
8. Students may bring in an extra healthy snack on testing days. They are welcome to eat snack before testing begins.
9. Test takers can keep a water bottle at their desk during testing. They may not get up to get a drink of water during the testing session.
10. Students will be given extra recess on testing days. This extra recess may be in the morning or in the afternoon depending on timing.
I think this is everything. Feel free to respond with any other questions I can answer.