Begin teaching test-taking skills well in advance of the test date . Take time to discuss with students the general nature and purpose of standardized tests. After instruction in a number of skills, have children take practice tests to combine the use of skills and to ensure maximum transfer to a testing situation. Practice materials should match the format of the standardized test as closely as possible . You don't have to invent your own materials.
Commercial material is available that can be purchased using school site funds.
Practice using time limits under which children must complete a specified amount of work . If students have difficulty at first, start with untimed practice items. Gradually decrease the time. Practice using test item formats that may differ from exercises found in students' instructional materials. Teach the style and format of the tests .