Third, fifth and eighth-graders are about to enter a new dimension.  This dimension contains not only reading and language comprehension but mathematics.  This wonderous journey into academic achievement of both high standards and expectations can be found in THE CRCT ZONE. 

What is the CRCT ZONE?  It’s where meeting standards are crucial for promotion to the next grade.

The CRCT, or Criterion-Referenced Competency Test, is the test given in Georgia that measures student knowledge in the areas of English/language arts, math, reading, science and social studies.

Even though the CRCT won’t happen until next April, SCCPS officials say it is not too early to stress good preparation and how it can help students perform well on examinations.  Here are some tips for students.

Before the Test:

·         Prepare yourself mentally.  If you are overly worried about taking the test, much of the energy you will need will be used up by anxiety.  Understanding as much as you can about the kind of test you are taking, the purpose of the test, and what the test covers will help you reduce anxiety.

·         Follow normal routines.  Interrupting your normal routine may affect your performance.  On the night before the test, go to bed no later than your normal time.  On the morning of the test, eat a normal breakfast and lunch.  Skipping meals or overeating before a test may also drastically affect your performance.

During the Test:

·         Concentrate.  Do not allow yourself to be distracted by noises or movements around you.

·         Read the directions carefully before marking your answer.  This will save time and lessens the chance of marking answers in the wrong place.

·         Read the entire question and answer all choices.  You should read each item and answer all choices before marking your final answer on a question.

·         Make an educated guess.  Try to eliminate one or more choices as you attempt to come up with your answer.

·         Place your answer correctly on the Answer Document.  Be sure to match the item number in the test booklet with the number on the Answer Document.

·         Keep track of the time.  Pace yourself, but remember the time factor.

·         Use all of the time allocated for the test.  Remember, persistence pays off in the long run.

Parents also play a major role in building academic success.  Here are some tips for parents and guardians to help children perform well on tests.

·         Make sure your child attends school regularly. Remember that tests reflect the overall achievement of your child.

·         Give your child encouragement.  Praise your child for the things done well throughout the year.

·         Make sure your child had a well-rounded diet.  A healthy body leads to a healthy, active mind.

·         Meet with your child’s teachers as often as possible to discuss your child’s academic progress.  Parents and teachers should work together to benefit their student.

·         Make sure your child completes homework. Homework supports classroom instruction and can help your child’s progress.

Ask the teacher(s) to suggest activities you can do at home.  Home activities can go a long way to improving his or her understanding of schoolwork.