{I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Carson-Dellosa. I received product samples and a promotional item to thank me for my participation}
Just this year, my son was introduced to some very basic testing including math and spelling. Admittedly, I was a bit surprised that he would have started so early, but I know that our school, like most in the nation, adhere to Common Core Standards so testing will be a part of his education long-term. At present, my son is excelling academically and reads above his grade level. But there are definitely areas that can be improved upon and just a few weeks ago, I found myself inside our local Lakeshore Learning Store in search of some supplemental, grade-specific resources.
I still remember the mild angst associated with taking tests, which was not alleviated until I graduated with my Master’s Degree. I believe that starting testing early can help calm the nerves associated with this required practice, but some, if not all kids could benefit from at-home practice. Even in college, I found myself utilizing test prep resources as I studied to take the exam that would ultimately authenticate my career as a nurse. And if a child possesses the knowledge that is being tested, but struggles with the skill of test-taking, it is possible that results won’t be an accurate reflection of that knowledge. Test taking is a vital skill and one that parents can help their children master with the appropriate resources.
For over 35 years, Carson-Dellosa has provided supplemental educational products for parents and teachers across the globe. During my visit to Lakeshore, I specifically sought out materials from this teacher-founded company because of recommendations from my son’s teacher and other parents. At present, we are using the Spectrum Test Prep and Practice Workbooks to ready my son for standardized tests and allow him to practice so that he understands the basics of taking tests. Like many children, he can get overwhelmed in new situations where he isn’t clear on what is expected, so I like that these workbooks help him learn how to follow directions, budget his time and get hands-on practice with the testing format.
Carson-Dellosa currently offers Spectrum Test Prep and Practice Workbooks for children in grades 1-8. Each workbook is grade-specific and aligns with Common Core Standards, which is incredibly helpful for both parent and child. We are currently working through the Grade 2 Test Prep and Practice Workbooks which focus on Language and Math and I as a parent appreciate that the content mirrors the work I see him doing in school and at home. In fact, some of the practice questions have mirrored the homework we complete together during the week.
The Spectrum Test Prep Workbook includes subject-specific test-taking strategies, tips, and practice pages. For each question posed, the workbook also details specific information on how to solve or answer For example, my son just finished learning about Measuring and Estimating Lengths and Telling Time. Within each practice question, the workbook details a specific strategy and a tip for accomplishing the task. Since we received these workbooks in the middle of the year, I decided to start my son in the middle of the workbook to reinforce what he is currently learning in school.
The Spectrum Test Practice Workbook includes subject-specific lesson pages, sample tests and practice tests. Clues are provided throughout the workbook which parents and children can discuss to help with test taking. At present, we are using the lesson pages to reinforce what my son has been learning in school in addition to clarifying any topics that he has been struggling with. The practice tests can be timed to simulate test-taking in schools and each of the tests can be photocopied for multiple uses, particularly for students who are having difficulty mastering a specific topic.
In addition to providing practice for children at home, which is familiar and more relaxing than the formal classroom, Caron-Dellosa’s Test Prep and Practice Workbooks can help parents identify and then focus on specific areas where their students may be struggling. Used over a period of time, parents can track progress and provide positive reinforcement for mastery or seek out more specific help if necessary. Additionally, these workbooks can help children prepare for and take tests in a way that accurately demonstrates the knowledge they have attained.
Whether your child is struggling with a specific subject, or you’re simply looking to reinforce learning, Carson-Dellosa’s teacher-developed resources can help children be successful in school. Additionally, their test prep resources can help children learn to follow directions, gain exposure to a variety of test formats, budget their time wisely and learn strategies for avoiding common test-taking mistakes. I encourage you to visit CarsonDellosa.com to find the resource that is best for your student.
**If you order a Spectrum Testing Workbook before March 12th, 2015, you’ll receive the digital version for free. Simply enter the code SPEB215 during checkout.
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