CRT, OCCT, TASS, Standardized test. These names sound so intimidating!
What is a Criterion Referenced Test, anyway? How is it different from a
"multiple choice" test that parents took as children? No Child Left Behind
(NCLB) has required that schools demonstrate that students are learning each
year, and most states have decided that this accountability should result in

some type of standardized test. The titles of these tests alone make parents
feel intimidated. "I want to help my child, but I don't know how!" This is the
cry that many thousands of parents make every year. They know how important
standardized testing is, but they don't know what they can do to assist their
child.

This article is designed to give parents simple ideas which any parent can do
to help your child prepare for the test. While there is no easy solution to
guarantee how well your child will do on the test, there are simple guidelines
which can help ensure that your child will do his/her best on the test.

1. Help your child know the content.

There is no way around it your child must know the material which is going to
be on the test. To do well on any test, standardized or not, your child should
know what is taught in the class. As the year passes, make sure you know what
your child is learning. There are many ways in which you can do this.

Look at your child's homework. Check it for accuracy. Most teachers don't
mind the parents checking the child's homework and making the child redo items
which are wrong. Just be sure you are not doing the work for them! Many
teachers have complained about a child's homework being turned in that is not
even written in the child's handwriting! Parents, doing the homework yourself
does NOT help your child. It teaches him/her that they are not capable of doing
it, which prepares them to expect failure. If you notice your child having
difficulty with the homework, try to help them yourself. Getting involved with
your child's instruction will always help your child to do better.

If your child still doesn't understand with your help, consider hiring a tutor.
Many certified teachers or retired teachers tutor out of their home for
reasonable rates. Also, children in middle or high school who understand the
material are willing to help for not much money. Talk to the school or your
child's teacher and see if they offer after school tutoring. Some may charge,

• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Helping your child prepare for standardized tests?
We want to hear your view. Write now!