Make TAKS tracker folders at the start of the year. Inside the folder is stapled a sheet of graph paper that students use to graph their results on the practice TAKS taken through the year. The week before the real test, the students look at their past results. This helps them see what they need to work on and lets them set goals for themselves.
Let students pick their own rewards for passing the TAKS test. Put their choices up on the board and let them pick two. The rewards should correspond to the age and grade level. Some examples are game day, extra recess, special snacks or early release for older students.
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Have students draw names from one of the other classes and write a simple letter encouraging the other student to do well on the test. Students can also interview other students about how they have studied for the test. Other classes can do the same. This works well in grades three through six and is a good exercise in handwriting.