Practice for the 6th Grade Reading Test: How to Prep for the Citywide Test

6th Grade State Reading Test Prep Strategies

Help at Home

As a parent, you may be your 6th grader's best resource because you're available to read and discuss literature one-on-one. Your child can select books from 6th grade reading lists, which you'll find at her school or the local library. These lists usually have selections from many different genres, so your child will be able to find some books that pique her interest. Read along with your child and engage her in discussions about the book.

Most state tests include reading passages followed by in-depth questions that require your child to apply critical thinking skills. To prepare your child for questions like these, ask him to analyze the plot and think about why the characters feel and act the way they do.

Internet Resources

For a fun alternative to book lists, you and your child can listen to podcasts of recommended book titles, which are available for free from ReadWriteThink. Scholastic's website has interactive books and spin-off activities to help students practice various reading skills, including comprehension and fluency.

You can also find free reading worksheets at RHL School and tls.com. They are typically formatted like standardized tests, with short reading passages followed by multiple-choice questions. Additionally, Englishforeveryone.org has worksheets that can be helpful for practicing critical thinking skills, like making predictions and inferences.

Practice Tests

Shortly before the test, you can have your child complete a practice reading assessment. Many states make old tests available for student use. You can check your state's board of education website or ask your child's teacher for practice tests from your state. EDinformatics also has 6th grade reading tests from most states available on its website. Answer keys are usually included.

Pearson Longman's website is another place where you can find standardized reading tests online. They are organized by grade level, and they include short answer, extended response and multiple-choice questions.