Saturday, March 16, 2013

MCAS


As many of you know, the Reading MCAS begins next week. We had a brief practice test on Wednesday. This was fairly short, and simply gave the children an exposure to the experience.

The actual test will be administered on Monday, March 18 and Wednesday, March 20 at 9:00am. The test is created to take about 60 minutes. Some children will be done sooner, and others will take longer. The test is untimed, so the children can take as long as they need.

I am asking all students to be in bed by 8:00 the nights before the test (Sunday and Tuesday night). Please help your children follow this guideline. In addition, all children should eat a healthy breakfast before coming to school each test day.

The children are welcome to bring in an extra healthy snack if they would like to eat before the test begins. They will be encouraged to eat lightly so they don't become sleepy from overeating. After all children have completed the test, they will also be able to eat snack and relax for a short time. The children will get extra recess each test day in order to run off any extra steam.

Next week will look different in terms of homework. Written homework will not be assigned. I do not expect children to complete Spelling City.  Your children should continue to read (or be read to) for at least 20 minutes each night and continue to use Xtra Math at least 3 times this week.

Most importantly, I do not want your children to feel stressed about MCAS. It is important that they know we believe they will do well. Please encourage them to work hard and do their best. However, also remind them that no matter how they do on MCAS, we know they are smart children!

Thanks for your cooperation. Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have.

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