ITBS Test Tips

CTK Catholic School students in grades 2 through 8 participate in the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS).  This is the test form used nationally by many Catholic schools, including those in the Archdiocese of Mobile. The purpose of the test is to measure student achievement. The data is used to enhance the learning environment at Christ the King Catholic School. Please take some time to remind your child/children to try their best on the tests by reviewing the strategies below. Please also make sure  your child is rested and on time to school.

Please refer to the Tech Tips for Parents tab for more information regarding the use of electronic devices and bedtime usage. 

STRATEGIES FOR TAKING STANDARDIZED TESTS

• When you begin a test, quickly look over questions.  This will help you see what the test is about and how many questions you will have to answer.
• It is important to manage your time while taking a test.  Begin by checking the number of questions in the test and the amount of time you have to take the test.  Try to complete about half of the questions by the time you are about halfway through the total test time.  Keep track of the time as you work.
• Read ALL DIRECTIONS very carefully.  Don't begin answering questions before you read the directions.
• If you feel nervous before a test, try this:  Close your eyes and take several slow, deep breaths.  Spend a few minutes relaxing your mind.
• Try to answer ALL the test questions.  Do the easy ones first.  When you come to a hard question, don't spend too much time trying to figure it out.  Wait until you have finished the easy questions.  Then go back and work on the hard ones.
• All tests have some hard questions.  They are meant to stump you!  It is best to make a good guess at the answer.  First, find any choices that you know are wrong.  Then look at the leftover choices and make your best guess.
• Mark your answers by filling in the circle with a dark pencil mark.  If you make a mistake, erase thoroughly.  Then fill in the circle next to the correct answer.
• When you have finished the test, go back and work on any questions you skipped, or go back and check your answers.

Click here for the Test Taking Song Video.
Click here for Ned's Test Prep Rap Song Videeo.