KNOXVILLE (WATE) – As students across East Tennessee prepare to take the TCAP exams, parents may be looking for ways to help their student with all that stress.
Karee Dunn, a professor from UT in the Department of Education, Psychology and Counseling shared some tips.
About TCAP
Every school in Tennessee is required to administer the TCAP achievement tests to students in grades 3-8. Some schools test in grades K-12.
TCAP, which stands for Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program, covers reading/language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. Special education students may be given an alternate test.
The total time for all components is approximately five hours, but the tests are broken into segments for students to take over several days. Schools must administer the tests between March 26-April 13.
The TCAP tests use multiple choice questions and have set time limits. No passing or failing grades are issued for the tests. The results are used to measure student progress in Tennessee.
How to Help Your Child
On the Day of Testing
- Make sure that your child attends school.
- Get your child’s day off to a good start.
- Be sure your child is at school on time and relaxed.
- Encourage your child to do the best work possible.
- Provide breakfast for your child.
- Do not cause your child unnecessary stress regarding the test.
- Do not send your child to school if illness is apparent.
During the School Year
- Consult with teachers, counselors and principals immediately if you or they have concerns about your child.
- Know when important tests are scheduled.
- Encourage your child to complete all homework assignments.
- Set aside a daily study time.
- Discuss your child’s schoolwork with him/her regularly.
- Praise your child for good work.
- Encourage your child to ask questions at home and in class.
- Convey to your child the importance of a good education.
