Guidance from Iowa Testing Program (August 2005)
| Q: |
How far in advance of testing should test-preparation activities be used, or for how long prior to the start of testing should each activity be used? |
Ideally, test preparation should be an integral part of the regular instructional program rather than an add-on activity. In that way, instructional activities that support test preparation likely would occur throughout the year rather than in a concentrated block of time just prior to the test administration. Activities that occur just prior to the testing tend to have a short-term effect, whether the temporary impact was intended or not.
Also, intense practice or attention to testing during the weeks immediately before testing tends to put undue pressure on some students, causing them to be less prepared psychologically for performing at their best. (p. 5)
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