Though there are four main subjects covered in the test, questions are taken from material in different areas of each subject. Some of these areas are health, arts, and social studies. The test requires reading long story problems and paragraphs throughout. It is helpful to increase reading stamina by practicing on a regular basis. Many test questions will be multiple choice. On these, it is helpful for your child to narrow down choices by marking those they know are incorrect. It is also important for them to try not to second guess their first instinct.
The reading portion of the test will consist of multiple choice, short response, and extended-response questions. The short and extended-response types will require students to answer with complete sentences. Practice improving reading comprehension by asking your child to read a short story and discuss details afterward.
The math portion of the test will include multiple choice, gridded-response, short-response, and extended-response questions. Gridded-response questions require students to mark answers on a grid or graph. Consult your child's teacher for math topics covered on their test. These can be reviewed ahead of time and practiced at home. If your child struggles with a particular part of math, fractions for example, you may work with them to find "tricks" for remembering rules. Sites, such as the ones in Resources, can supply you with those tricks.
The writing portion will require an essay response. Practice writing essays on a random topic before the test. This will help your child develop skills for formatting an essay response in a short period of time. They may also wish to use scratch paper to map out thoughts or create a quick outline while taking the test.
Review subject areas including physical, chemical, life, space, and earth science. The exam includes multiple choice and gridded-response type questions.