Students need to familiarize themselves with the test format and questions by completing FCAT review questions supplied by their teachers. The Florida Department of Education has released past FCAT exam from 2005 to 2007, which are available online free of charge. Students can use these exams to prepare as well. Test practice alleviates test anxiety and maximizes student performance. Helping your child complete all teacher suggested activities also provides them with a better understanding of the material and increases their scoring potential. Regular class attendance is also imperative so they do not miss test preparation lesson plans.
Those preparing for the FCAT should get plenty of rest and eat breakfast regularly to fuel the body. Since the FCAT exam is lengthy, a good night's sleep the night before the test keeps the mind sharp and body relaxed on test day. On test day, students should arrive at school on time and dressed comfortably. Test takers need plenty of encouragement from family, especially if they suffer from test anxiety and are afraid of failing. If you suspect that your child may be encountering difficulties with any of the class work or preparatory materials, contact the teacher in order to find ways to assist him in understanding and learning the material.
Florida students are assessed annually from the third grade to the 11th in order to measure their proficiency in reading and math according to the Sunshine State Benchmarks and to be promoted to the next grade. A scale score of 300 in reading comprehension and in mathematics is considered a passing score.
High school students who have failed a portion of the FCAT and missed or failed previous opportunities to retake the test may elect to do the following: take the SAT or ACT and earn a concordant score to earn their high school diploma, elect to take the GED or receive a certificate of completion, attend a community college and sit for the Florida College Entrance Level Placement Test (FLECPT). Students who elect the third option may continue to retake the FCAT, SAT or ACT until they acquire a passing score to obtain their high school diploma.