Multiple-choice questions are the most commonly used type of test item, but 37 states say their tests also include performance tasks. These tasks vary across states, but include open-ended questions, essays, experiments, and, in some cases, portfolios of student work. The best test preparation for high-stakes tests is quality curriculum and instruction. At best, any test is a sample of what students know and are able to do. So the best preparation for high-stakes tests is a rich educational experience in which students develop deep understanding as well as such skills as problem solving and analysis.
Teachers can teach test-taking skills as part of regular classroom instruction.
Teaching the test, or teaching to the test, is not appropriate. It shortchanges students by taking up valuable instructional time that should be spent on the content students need to learn to do well on the tests. It is likely to have little or no effect on students scores, and it certainly will not have a long-term effect on their performance. In fact, if carried to extremes, teaching the test can so limit what is taught that students suffer long-term because they do not learn what they need to learn. Know how to use their time effectively and efficiently Maximize their scores by applying test-taking strategies.