NYS 4th Grade Test: Info for Students in New York State

Helping your Child Prepare for New York State 4th Grade Standardized Tests

What Are New York State 4th Grade Standardized Tests?

Students in New York State often take several standardized tests each year. These tests are designed to assess students' mastery of the state's learning standards. Schools use these scores to make sure their teachers are educating effectively and the flow of funding is sometimes adjusted with these scores in mind. In some cases, your child's score may determine her or his placement for the following year.

What Subjects Will Be on the Test?

When your child is in 4th grade, she will typically take New York State's standardized test in English/language arts, math and science. She won't need to study for a social studies exam until the 5th grade. All three 4th grade tests will typically be presented to your child in a multiple-choice format. The more familiar your child is with this type of testing, the more ready she will likely be on the testing day.

How Can I Use These Tests to Help My Child?

After you receive your child's test scores, you'll have a good idea of his abilities in these areas. After your child takes the New York State social studies test in 5th grade the following year, you'll know his ability levels in all subject areas. You can benefit from knowing your child's scores by identifying his strengths and weaknesses. You can then schedule a conference with his teacher to address his unique challenges.

How Can I Help My Child to Be Prepared?

One of the best ways to help your 4th grader prepare for standardized testing is to make sure that she does well throughout the school year. Always do your best to frequently communicate with her teachers and counselors to check up on her progress. Go over your child's assignments at home and make sure that she remains on track. If you can, create a study space for your child to do homework and study in.

When the testing day is approaching, contact your child's teachers to find out where she needs the most help. In addition, check the New York Learning standards for the 4th grade and go over the material that will be on the New York State test with your child.

You can also download practice exams from the New York Department of Education or ask your child's school for them. Recreate a quiet testing environment for your child at home. Time your child as she takes the test and then go over the answers. Help your child with the areas where it's most needed.

What If My Child Needs Extra Help?

If any extra help is needed, consider taking your child to a learning center or hiring a tutor. If he's in need of a tutor, there are quite a few options to consider. Whether your child needs a private tutor or a tutor that can provide help over the Internet, , any boost she or he may need to succeed on New York State standardized tests is available.