Oh boy, the darn tests are back! So what does that mean for you and your students? It’s time to have fun and learn to relax.  No joke.  

Metamorphosis is here to help you prepare for the looming mathematics test in ways that motivate rather than stress you or your students. We know how to make test prep engaging and effective. Learn to reduce anxiety in the lead-up to the state test so all your students do well.

While most educators and students are expected to rely on tired test prep materials, break from the norm and use memes, videos, and other hip tools to engage your students.  Acing the test is easier and more fun than you might think. Confidence is key to success. Some highly recommended online games worth playing are listed below.  

Shut the box

Math Jeopardy

Desmos platform

Buzzer Game

Test anxiety is a major contributor to poor performance. A recent @edutopia Twitter thread revealed some fantastic tips and tricks to help students keep their cool and focus.  Many can be practiced  before and even during the mathematics test. For example, one educator stated, “I address math anxiety by offering low floor, high ceiling tasks so everyone can participate and feel like a valuable part of the class community.”

Teaching multiple solution methods and using  the same pre-and post-assessment allow students to see their progress, hone in one what they need to review and build their confidence. Simultaneously their  problem-solving skills improve. One big surprising boost to confidence and success in life and on tests is getting comfortable with making mistakes. Knowing that it’s okay to do so, encourages the willingness to keep trying.  Consider sharing how you got through scary tests in your school days, to reassure the students that part of learning and improving requires making mistakes and learning from them. That’s not only okay, it’s what champions do.

When the time comes, don’t forget to remind your students of the three p’s: practice, patience, and positivity. It won’t hurt to tell them to remember that tests don’t define them, and believing in themselves matters.

We’d love to hear from you! 

Comment below and share a few tips and ideas that have worked for you.