8th Grade Assessment, Test and Exit Exam Information

How to Help Your Child Prepare for 8th Grade Assessments

What's an 8th Grade Assessment or Exit Test?

An 8th grade assessment test is likely to be similar to standardized testing your child may have already taken through the years. Most 8th grade assessment tests will be based on your state's standards. It's probable that your child will be tested on math and English/language arts. The inclusion of other subjects, like science and social studies, will vary from state to state. Illinois, for instance, only tests 8th graders on reading and math. New York, however, requires 8th graders to take tests in science and social studies as well.

What Advice Can I Give My Child?

When you're helping your child get ready for an 8th grade test, show him or her how to organize materials. Help your child get together all of the old homework assignments and handouts needed and put them in a single folder. Past tests may be especially helpful to review.

Next, tell your child what topics will appear on the test and what types of questions will be asked. Going over this information will often help your child be able to prepare more effectively.

If your child's test is going to have all multiple-choice questions, as many standardized or exit exams do, go over test-taking techniques, like the process of elimination. If it's going to be an essay test, your child may want to review broader themes from the unit.

What Can I Do to Help My Child at Home?

Make sure that your 8th grader has a space at home where he or she can study with no noise, mess or distractions, like television and the Internet. Keep all devices and phones away from the study space as well. Keep a regular schedule at home so that your child is studying at the same time each day. Consistency can help your child develop the habit of studying. In addition, monitor your child's work and go over the subjects that are difficult for him or her.

What If My Child Needs Extra Help?

If your child needs extra help, consult your 8th grader's teachers, counselors and any other education professionals who can help to determine your child's needs. It's likely that your community has a number of libraries, youth centers and educational facilities that may prove helpful programs. You may also consider hiring a tutor to help your child improve his or her test-taking abilities.