3rd Grade Exam Information and Test Prep

Helping Your Child Prepare for 3rd Grade Standardized Tests

What Kind of Testing Should My 3rd Grader Expect?

What kind of testing your child can expect depends upon a number of factors. The first and perhaps most important is where you reside. The kind of test or tests administered to children is usually determined by your state's Department of Education. Also, if your child is in a private school, he or she may not need to take a standardized test at all.

Most 3rd grade standardized tests are presented in a multiple-choice format. The focus is most often on math, reading and language arts. Science and social studies exams are usually administered later in the 4th or 5th grade. Consult your child's school or your state's Board of Education to find out what tests your child will be taking.

How Should My Child Get Ready?

Throughout the year, your child will be getting ready for standardized testing. A school's curriculum is generally based on the state's education standards. As a result, you should make sure that your 3rd grader stays on top of his or her work all year long.

Do your best to create a study space dedicated to homework and maintain a regular schedule so that your child is accustomed to working at the same time each and every day. When the test day is approaching, sit with your child and review the material he or she has learned throughout the school year.

How Can My Child Study With Practice Exams?

In the weeks and days leading up to the test, perhaps one of the most helpful resources can be practice tests. You may be able to find sample or practice exams through your child's school or else through your state's Board of Education or other related websites. Create a calm, quiet testing environment and time your child as he or she completes practice questions. Correct practice tests with your child and pay particularly close attention the areas that he or she needs to strengthen.

What Other Helpful Resources Are There?

One of the most effective ways for 3rd graders to prepare for a math exam is to complete practice problems because they get repeated practice solving problems. Select a worksheet that features the skills that will be tested on the exam and give your child practice problems several days before the test.

If your child needs extra help throughout the school year or before testing, consider taking him or her to a learning center or hiring a tutor. There are many different choices available to your child when it comes to tutoring. You might consider hiring a private tutor, a tutor from a national or local company or else an online tutor.