...so very ashamed... One thing I think many of us can agree on what we do NOT like about public school is how much time is invested in teaching to the SATs! But here we are, nonetheless, in a situation where we need somewhat of an idea where ds is in certain areas BEFORE we go into testing this Spring. It is a long story, maybe for another thread, but here is my question. I have found all sorts of drills, readiness workbooks, test prep exercises, etc. that say they are "Grade level such and such", but what I'm looking for is a "practice test", of sorts. Something where after he completes it (timed), and we score it, it says what average grade level their scores indicate. Much like the way the SAT scores & results are broken down. For instance ... if we are doing drills for 7th grade Math, how do we really know that if he can confidently master these concepts he is on "grade level" going into the testing? One reason this is important is we are looking at enrolling him in a private school in the Fall, and are struggling with the decision as to what grade to apply for. So does anyone have any suggestions on such a "practice test"? Thanks, Miller
Well, it's not a practice test, but you could always use the IOWA test. It's pretty much the same as the SAT, but a parent can administer it. I know Bob Jones sells it, but you can probably find it elsewhere as well. I don't think you need to feel ashamed about asking. I don't see what's wrong with using the tests as they were intended---- to measure where, in terms of grade level---- a student is performing. I have issues with people who use them as a guide to intellect or who revolve all their teaching around them.
NO need to be ashamed. There is nothing wrong with preparing your children to takes those tests. In fact, you should prepare them. That does not take away from the homeschooling experience. Afterall, in the world your kid ends up being a number on an SAT test...so why not have the highest score? lol. My kids take the standardized tests every year as part of our requirement to homeschool. I buy test books every year and prepare them. I want them to perform well. It is good testimony for homeschooling and it teaches them to take a test in a different way then they are used to. So good luck finding what you need.
I used to see some test prep practice tests in the store I shopped at before I moved. If you google Rock Solid Homeschool you will find it.
You can get the Iowa from BJU but they will only sell you the test if you are a certified administrator. Below is BJU's criteria to become a cert. admin. of the Iowas. For The Iowa Tests, the tester must • Be a teacher, certified by a state department of education to teach in a public school or other conventional school (homeschool or local association certification does not qualify) OR • Have a bachelor's degree OR • Be or have been a full-time academic classroom teacher in a conventional school (not a homeschool) AND • Be listed with us as a pre-approved tester for this series by completing a one-time-only application.
Have you asked the school for their recomendation on this? They may have a test or worksheets that you can use to see what grade would be the best fit for your ds.
I think teacher stores also sell practice tests. Also, CHECK THE LIBRARY! They often have old tests/practice tests in the stacks.
