Top 10 Tips for ISEE Prep

This is the first in our series of Tuesday Testing Tips, prepared by Megan Cohen of La Jolla Learningworks.

Just like any standardized test, preparation for the ISEE can make a big difference in your child’s performance.  Not only can advance preparation maximize your child’s score, it can also set the stage for confident test-taking in the years ahead. The following suggestions will help you set your child up for success on the ISEE:

1. Read up! Obtain a copy of the informational booklet, What to Expect on the ISEE. Updated for the 2009-10 testing season, the revised booklet contains clear explanations of the format of the test, sample questions, and practice tests. You can order or download materials at: http://www.erbtest.org/parents/admissions/isee.
2. Get acquainted with the test. Increasing your understanding of the test will help you give your child the support he/she needs. Take a practice test online or just review sample questions. Make sure you understand the test format and scoring procedures to explain them clearly to your child.
3. Talk to your child about the purpose of the test. Let your child know that the ISEE is used to compare students from different backgrounds and that it is just one of multiple components of the application process. In addition, make sure your child sees the benefits of attending private school. Your child’s buy-in to the application process and his/her comfort in knowing that you are an active supporter in the process are essential factors for testing success.
4. Schedule test prep time. Create structure for your child’s test preparation with a regular time set aside in your schedule for reviewing the test, practicing foundational skills, and solving sample test questions. Sticking to a regular schedule for test prep at home will allow you and your child feel secure in knowing that you are on target for the test.
5. Demystify the test. Review the instructions and explanations of each section of the test with your child. Make sure your child understands his/her test group (lower, middle, or upper). Since each test is administered to multiple grade levels, it is important for your child to know that he/she will only be scored with others in his grade level.
6. Set up a practice test (or 2!). Prepare a timer, answer sheets, sharpened pencils, and a blue or black ball-point pen (for the essay response). Monitor the time for your child with 5-minute notices before the end of each section.
7. Find teachable moments in mistakes. Help your child review mistakes on practice test questions to learn how to perform better on the actual test.
8. Build up basic skills. Address weaknesses or gaps in your child’s fundamental reading, writing, and mathematics skills. Building up the basics will not only ensure peak performance on the ISEE; it will equip your child for success in the years ahead. A private tutor can help identify specific skills that need to be strengthened and work efficiently to shore them up.
9. Alleviate anxiety.  Help your child overcome nervousness or anxiety about taking the test. Practice deep breathing and visualization techniques to instill a sense of calm before and during the test. Identify and quell your own worries, so you do not pass them along to your child!
10. Practice, practice, practice! Just like regular piano or soccer practice, testing skills develop over time with consistent rehearsal. With ample practice, your child will be ready to perform at his/her best on test day.

La Jolla Learningworks offers test preparation programs that give students the skills, strategies, and confidence they need to perform at their highest potential on standardized tests, such as the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) for middle school admissions. All programs are 1:1 and include diagnostic testing, preparation materials, and practice tests. For more information, contact Megan Cohen at La Jolla Learningworks at megan@ljlearningworks.com or by phone at (858) 456-4569, or visit their website at www.ljlearningworks.com.

One Response to “Top 10 Tips for ISEE Prep”

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   January 5, 2010 at 3:30 pm

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