Assessment Preparation: PSAT, SAT and CMAS in April 2024

The details:

• Format: PSAT/SAT/CMAS are computer based assessments.
• Time: Each test takes about 2.5 hours.
• Breaks: There are breaks in-between sections.
• No phones: Phones and other technology will be collected before the test starts and returned once the test is completed.
• PSAT/SAT test content: The content is specific to reading and math. Read more about the test here! https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/whats-on-the-test OR put ttps://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/whats-on-the-test into your browser bar. 
• CMAS test content: The content is specific to science materials. Read more about the test here! https://www.cde.state.co.us/assessment/cmas OR put the following into your browser bar https://www.cde.state.co.us/assessment/cmas.

What can I do if I am feeling anxious about testing? 

• 1. Test Study Preparation: Prepping for the assessments can help students to know what to expect on the test. All grade levels will use the same SAT prep.  Use the preparation link above or enter the following into your browser bar:  https://www.khanacademy.org/digital-sat
• 2. Research the Assessment: Take the time to read about the assessments. By doing some research you can view frequently asked questions, assessment history, how scoring works and more!  Use the links above, specific to each test, to understand more about the test. You can also do a google search to read more about the assessments.
• 3. Practice testing effectively: Make sure to treat your practice tests like the real test. No phone, quiet area, limit distractions, don’t use other materials and keep time.
• 4. Work with your Coach! Your coach can be a GREAT resource for you and help you with anything testing. They can provide you with prep support and even help connect you to support with any anxiety you may be experiencing. They can also clarify any details and test expectations. Reach out to them with any questions.
• 5. Ensure you know the details: You should know what time, day and what you need bring to your test session. If you do not know these details contact your coach and make sure to set a calendar reminder in your phone and on a calendar so you can remember those details. 
• 6. Practice Self-care. Self-care is important in all aspects of life; however, circumstances where you are experiencing anxiety it is extra important. Practicing self-care should be very intentional for the weeks leading up to the assessment. Self-care are positive actions you do to improve or take care of yourself.  Self-care includes: eating healthy food, drinking lots of water, getting enough sleep, exercising, having good hygiene, partaking in enjoyable hobbies or sports, self-reflection (Journaling, mediation, mindfulness etc), spending time with family and friends, and practicing a good work/life balance. If you are looking for self-care strategies talk to any GOAL staff.

Additional Strategies for Success: 

Day of best practices: Follow some “day-of-testing” best practices to make sure you are ready and not feeling anxious.

• 1. Block off your schedule the day of testing (It can add stress if you have somewhere to be right after testing, this can cause you to rush the test).
• 2. Double check the time and day of the test, make sure you show up to the right session.
• 3. Get a good night’s sleep the night before (aim for a full  8 hours of sleep). Limit caffeine the day(s) before as that can affect your sleep. 
• 4. Eat a good breakfast the morning of (make sure to have some protein). 
• 5. Make sure your ride to the site is on the same page for what time you have to be there. You cannot be late for the assessment.