Determine what MEAP test your child will be given. Students in grades three to eight are tested in mathematics and reading, grades four and seven are tested in writing, grades five and eight are tested in science, and grades six and nine are tested in social studies. School districts spend time before the MEAP preparing students and reviewing curriculum related to the MEAP. Talk to your child's teacher about areas where you can focus to supplement classroom studies.
Visit the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) website (michigan.gov/mde) to find samples of past MEAP tests and recommended study guides. In fall 2009, MDE stopped providing the public with copies of specific test items. The state continues to provide what it calls "item descriptors" in each tested subject that you can use to help your child study for his upcoming MEAP.
Find out if your school district offers MEAP study groups. Your child's teacher will have information regarding whether this is available in your school. Tutors can also help prepare students for the MEAP. Lists of tutors are available through the school. There are also professional tutors available in many communities who will work with students specifically on MEAP test subjects.
Prepare for the MEAP using an online study group or tutor. An advantage is that you can help your child study for the MEAP on your own schedule, working around extracurricular activities and work, rather than making an appointment and taking your child to a tutor or study group. Online study groups and tutors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Know the MEAP testing schedule. MEAP tests are given in the fall, beginning in mid-October. Test dates are set by the state with specified make-up days. Testing dates are set several years in advance. The specific dates are available through the MDE website.