Relieve the boredom some children associate with test-taking by playing silly games prior to test time. Take-offs on popular TV game shows can be aimed at test-taking skills or the specific substantive information required by the tests. Let kids compete informally against other grades or other classes, but never one-on-one against each other. Have kids make up test-related songs to perform on a mock "Idol" type show, create "Minute to Win It" style contests based on test materials or do a class- or school-wide scavenger hunt based on test-related problems.
Hold a school-wide pep rally prior to significant standardized testing periods. Help the kids let off steam by doing silly physical stunts and relays. Including the teachers in these activities is a good way to connect with the students. Present a brief serious explanation of why the tests matter and why it's important to do your best, along with some ideas to improve performance. For example, have a local team mascot or other popular figure do a rap or pop song about getting enough rest, eating healthy foods or other positive test-day behaviors.
Encourage the students to do well as a group or motivate the entire student body by offering an unusual or entertaining incentive the students can strive for but attain only if the entire group performs well. For example, the principal may agree to be in a dunk tank if the entire school improves its performance by some predetermined percentage over the previous year. A favorite teacher may allow students to duct-tape him to the wall of the gym if a specific grade level out-performs its previous levels of accomplishment.
Offer individual incentives based on each student improving her performance over her own previous levels, but do not pit students against each other. If a student has never gotten higher than seven out of 10 on a test, for example, reward him with an extra recess or free reading time if he improves to eight out of 10. Tell students they will be allowed, individually or as a group, to select a small extra snack or special treat as a reward for improved test performance.