REDUCING TEST ANXIETYNow, Before, During a Test

Presented by Sykes Student Success Center Bismarck State College

1Three ways:Things to start doing nowThings to do the day before a testThings to do the day of the test

Beginning course details and/or books/materials needed for a class/project.2Do you get nervous during a test?Write down the letter of the answer that best describes your feelings.

1.I look forward to taking tests.a. neverb. sometimesc. always2.After a test, I feel good about the experience.a. neverb. sometimesc. always3.My emotions interfere with my test-taking ability.a. alwaysb. sometimesc. never4.I prepare well before taking a test.a. neverb. sometimesc. always5.During a test, I think about the possibility of failing.a. alwaysb. sometimesc. never

A schedule design for optional periods of time/objectives. 36.I consider tests to be opportunities for learning.a. neverb. sometimesc. always

7.The sight of a test causes me to forget what I know.a. alwaysb. sometimesc. never8.I can control my test anxiety.a. neverb. sometimesc. always9.I feel ready for a test when the day arrives.a. neverb. sometimesc. always10.I worry about time when taking a test.a. alwaysb. sometimesc. never

ScoringA = 1 pointB= 2 pointsC= 3 points10-15You are letting anxiety control your test results. Listen carefully to the following tips for preparing for tests and lowering anxiety.16-20Plan to use some of the tips that follow to control your anxiety and improve your test scores.31-40You have a healthy anxiety level. A little anxiety can pump you up for a test.41-50Are you sure? Maybe you need to develop a little healthy anxiety.

Introductory notes.5How do you try to decrease anxiety?Do they work?

Objectives for instruction and expected results and/or skills developed from learning. 6The best way to prevent anxiety is to be prepared.Begin on the first day of classTake notesRead textsComplete assignmentsMake flashcards with important concepts and termsDaily reviewWeekly reviewMonthly reviewStudy scheduleJoin a study groupAsk questions in classEat healthy, drink water, exerciseAvoid caffeine and alcoholReward yourself after a test

Relative vocabulary list. 7Preparing for an upcoming testAsk about the testWhat type of test?How long? How much time?How important to grade?Notes, dictionary, calculator, etc. allowed?Definitions, names, dates, theorems included?Does spelling/grammar count?

Studying for a testAsk questions about what you do not understandMake a study checklist of key terms, formulasMake flashcards SQ4R

The Night Before a Test:RelaxTalk to othersDistract yourselfAvoid crammingVisualize successMake a summary cardAsk, what is the worst that could happen?

On Test DayBe preparedArrive early with all suppliesTell yourself you are readyBreathe deeplyLook over the entire test firstRead the directions carefullyMake notes of important dates or formulasManage your time, do not rushAsk questionsSit where there are no distractionsLeave time to proofreadGuess if there is no penaltyWrite neatly

ConclusionIf you prepare from the first day of class, then all you will need is a quick review the night before.

Relax, you will remember!

Conclusion to course, lecture, et al. 12Thank you for attending.Reducing Test Anxiety

Presented by the Sykes Student Success CenterBismarck State College