Set aside 15 to 20 minutes for reading each night. In addition to helping the child prepare for the reading portion of the TAKS test, a regular reading regimen improves self-esteem, reading speed, comprehension, memory, self-discipline and reasoning skills. After the time is up, have the child discuss what he read, particularly the characters, plot and setting to check for comprehension. Read different types of literature -- magazines, newspapers, novels, and poetry.
Print out TAKS reading study guides, which can be downloaded online for free. Choose the study guide according to the child's grade level. The study guide will hone reading skills such as understanding context clues, figurative language, using prefixes and suffixes, multiple word meanings and finding the main idea.
Print and complete TAKS reading worksheets. When choosing worksheets, pick those that correlate to the what the students will be tested on, such as vocabulary and word identification, text structures, literary elements, comprehension and critical thinking.
Print out or take the sample TAKS reading test online. The TAKS practice test is designed to familiarize the test taker with the TAKS format. The practice test can be taken prior to studying for the TAKS to determine the student's weaknesses and strengths and as a post test to see how much the student has learned.
Use flashcards, board games or online games and quizzes for further review. Have the student study all worksheets, study guides and practice tests.