Your FCAT Tips (For Al)!

Hey guys-

Here is the list of ALL the wonderful FCAT tips that you suggested. Al really learned a lot from your presentations! Hopefully, you all learned something too. ;)



Before the Test

• Get a good night's sleep. ("Go to bed by 10:00!" says Miss McCoy.)
• Eat a healthy breakfast. (Protein is good brain food!)*
• Do some brain exercises, like Sudoku.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Don't wear jewelry that can make noise (like bangles).
• Don't come to school if you are sick. We want you healthy when you take the test.
• Be on time to school!
• Use the restroom before the test.
• Turn OFF cellphones! (Even better, leave them at home or in your locker!)

Getting Your Mind Ready

• Relax.
• Be confident.
• Remember- it's just a test, not the end of the world.
• Slow down and concentrate.
• Chew gum or a mint to help you stay focused.
• Just do your best.
• Take your time.
• Don't stress.
• Get focused.
• Stay calm- don't panic.
• Think positive.
• If you would like to, pray that you will do your best.
• Don't get frustrated.
• Keep your head up.
• Think of something to motivate you.

During the Test

• Read the questions carefully BEFORE you read the passage so you will know what you are
• looking for.
• Think about what kind of question it is- what is it asking?
• Underline key words or phrases in the questions and the passages.
• Make notes in the margins if it helps you.
• Don't just skim the passages- read them carefully.
• Use process of elimination to get rid of unreasonable answers.
• If a question is difficult, circle it and move on. Come back to it after you have answers the easier questions.
• If you are unsure, make an educated guess.
• Mark EVERY answer. Don't leave any blank!
• Use your time wisely- keep track of the time! (But remember- it's not a race.)

Types of Questions on the Reading Test

• Look for context clues for meanings of words you don't know.
• On reference & research questions, refer to the passage(s) & any maps and charts.
• In identifying the author's purpose, look for key words like inform, explain, convince, persuade, and entertain.
• To identify cause & effect, think of it like a situation- "what happens if I do this?"
• Comparing is finding the similarities between things, and contrasting is finding the differences.

Short & Extended Response Questions

• Spend no more than 5 minutes on a short response question, which should be answered in 4-6
• sentences.
• Spend no more than 10 minutes in an extended response question, which should be answered in 8-10 sentences.
• Use multiple details from the passage in your answers.
• Answer the questions thoroughly.
• Check your grammar and spelling in your answers.

Before Your Time is Up

• Go back and double check your answers. (Make sure every answer is marked!)
• Bubble your answers completely.
• Don't leave any stray marks on your answer sheet.

Wow! You guys came up with an amazing list of tips and advice! Let's face it- you are practically experts in taking the FCAT. I have complete confidence that each and every one of you will do your best, and your efforts will pay off! Now follow your own advice, and you will do fine!



I'm proud of you guys!


Miss McCoy :)



* McDonald's is giving out free breakfast (Egg McMuffin, apple dippers, & milk or OJ) to all students in grades 3-11 on March 9th, starting at 6am. (Students under 15 must have a parent or guardian with them.) Get that brain food!