• MAP Testing Tips

    Every year, students take the Missouri Assessment Program (MaP) testing to determine how much they've learned. Here are some tips to help your child perform at his or her best!

    On the Day of the Test:

    Make sure your child gets a good night's sleep and eats a healthy breakfast.
    Many teachers report that students who don't perform well on tests haven't gotten enough sleep, and haven't eaten breakfast on the morning of the test. Doing both of these things will ensure that your child is working at full capacity.

    Before the Test:

    Many teachers will send information home about testing schedules and class preparation plans. Information that you should know includes:

    • What is the test and what will it measure?
    • Will the test results affect your child, school, or both?
    • Are there ways that you can help your child prepare for the test?

    Make sure your child is prepared

    • Some schools may supply the tools your child needs for the test, such as pencils, an eraser, paper, and a calculator. Others may require the students to bring those materials themselves.
    • Check with your child's teacher to see if you need to provide your child with any of these materials.
    • Check to see whether your child will be able to make up the test if they are sick on test day.

    On a Daily Basis:

    • Assist your child with homework and ensuring that your child is completing all homework assignments
    • Help your child to develop good study habits, thinking skills, and a positive attitude towards education from an early age
    • Ensure that your child has good attendance at school
    • Stay in communication with your child's teacher
    • Encourage your child to read as much as possible to increase your child’s vocabulary - even reading magazines, newspapers, and comic books regularly will help improve their reading skills
    • Look for educational games and programs that engage your child
    • Helping your child learn how to follow directions

    ....And finally:

    As you help your child do their best on the tests, remind your child that testing is just one part of their education. With your support and involvement, your child will be well on their way to a bright future.