Ace Your Statewide Tests: The Ultimate Self-Guide
This self-guided course equips students with proven test-taking strategies to excel in statewide exams. It focuses on time management, stress reduction, and techniques for answering different question types, all at their own pace.
What's included
9 pre-recorded lessons
8 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentAssignments
2-4 hours per week. Students will complete practice questions and timed tests, focusing on multiple-choice, short-answer, and essay questions. These exercises will help assess their ability to apply the strategies learned in the course.Projects
A full-length, timed practice test will be administered at the end of the course. Students will submit this along with a reflection on their performance, highlighting areas of strength and improvement.Letter Grade
Grading: Grading will be based on the completion and accuracy of the practice exercises, quizzes, and final project. The overall grade will be a combination of: Weekly quizzes: 40% Practice exercises: 40% Final project (full-length practice test + reflection): 20%Certificate of Completion
includedClass Experience
This 8-week self-paced course is designed to help students build essential test-taking strategies for statewide exams. It covers time management, stress reduction, and effective techniques for answering different question types, all while encouraging confidence and self-reliance. By the end of the course, students will feel prepared, focused, and ready to tackle any test. Course Structure: Duration: 8 Weeks (Self-paced, with weekly milestones) Format: Weekly lessons with interactive quizzes, practice exercises, and worksheets
Learning Goals
Develop a Personalized Test-Prep Plan: Students will create a tailored study schedule and learn effective strategies for managing their study time, ensuring consistent preparation for statewide tests.Master Time Management During Tests: Students will gain the skills to effectively manage time during tests, including pacing themselves across different sections and avoiding common time-related mistakes.
Syllabus
9 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Test-Taking Strategies
Understand the importance of test-taking strategies
Set personal goals for the course and upcoming exams
Content:
Overview of the course structure
Common test formats and types of questions
Creating a mindset for success
Activity: Set up a test prep schedule and identify personal strengths and challenges
Assessment: Weekly quiz on test formats and goal-setting 2 assignments
Lesson 2:
Building Your Study Plan
Create a personalized, manageable study plan for test prep
Learn effective study techniques for different subjects
Content:
Time-blocking and study scheduling
Active studying vs. passive studying
Tips for staying motivated
Activity: Develop a detailed weekly study plan
Assessment: Submit your study plan for review and feedback Lesson 3:
Time Management for Test Day
Objectives:
Master techniques for managing time during a test
Learn how to pace yourself on timed exams
Content:
Time management strategies for different types of tests
How to allocate time for each question section
Dealing with time pressure and avoiding rushing
Activity: Time yourself completing practice test sections
Assessment: Quiz on time management strategies and pacing techniques Lesson 4:
Test Anxiety and Stress Management
Objectives:
Identify common sources of test anxiety and stress
Learn relaxation techniques to stay calm and focused
Content:
Techniques for managing anxiety before and during the test
Breathing exercises, visualization, and positive affirmations
Staying calm under pressure
Activity: Practice relaxation techniques before a mock test
Assessment: Reflection on anxiety levels and relaxation effectiveness Other Details
Learning Needs
This course is designed to support diverse learning needs, including ADHD, dyslexia, and ASD, by offering structured, manageable modules and interactive elements to keep students engaged and focused.
Supply List
Notebook or Journal Students will need a notebook or journal to take notes, track progress, and complete reflection activities. This will help them stay organized and focused throughout the course. Cost: Typically $1–$5, depending on size and quality. Pen/Pencil and Highlighter A writing instrument and highlighter will be essential for taking notes, marking important points, and highlighting key concepts during study sessions. Cost: Around $2 for a basic pack. Timer or Stopwatch A timer will be needed to practice pacing yourself during timed exercises and mock tests. This can be a physical timer or a timer app on a phone. Cost: Free (using a phone timer) or around $5 for a basic physical timer. Access to a Computer/Tablet Since this course is self-guided, students will need access to a computer or tablet with an internet connection to access the course materials, complete quizzes, and watch instructional videos. Cost: Varies, but most students already have access to these devices. Printer and Paper (Optional) If students wish to print out worksheets, practice tests, or study guides, they will need access to a printer. While this is optional, some students may find it helpful to have physical copies to work with. Cost: Printing typically costs about $0.10 per page, depending on the printer. Practice Test Materials Throughout the course, students will be given links or PDFs to download practice tests based on their specific statewide test. These materials are provided as part of the course and are included in the course fee. Text-to-Speech Software (Optional for students with Dyslexia or other needs) Students may choose to use text-to-speech software to help read through the course materials or practice test questions. There are many free apps available, such as NaturalReader or built-in features on many devices (e.g., VoiceOver on Apple devices). Cost: Free (many apps are available at no charge).
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined November, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
Florida Teaching Certificate in Special Education
I bring a combination of formal training, hands-on experience, and a deep understanding of student needs to this course, particularly in the areas of test-taking strategies and working with diverse learners.
Teaching Experience:
I have over 10 years of experience in education, including working as a special education teacher with students across K-12 grades. This experience has provided me with the skills to teach test-taking strategies to students of all abilities, particularly those with learning challenges like ADHD, dyslexia, and ASD. In addition to working with individual students, I have taught life skills and study techniques to students with disabilities, focusing on building confidence and academic skills.
Specialized Training:
I hold a Master’s Degree in Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology, which has given me an in-depth understanding of motivation, stress management, and effective learning strategies. This background is critical for teaching students how to manage anxiety, structure their study plans, and improve their test-taking abilities. Additionally, I have a certification in Special Education, which allows me to address diverse learning needs and adapt my teaching to ensure accessibility and engagement.
Experience with Test-Taking Strategies:
I have worked extensively with students to improve their test-taking skills, focusing on key areas like time management, reducing test anxiety, and improving focus and accuracy. I have designed and implemented workshops and one-on-one coaching for students preparing for standardized tests, helping them develop personalized strategies to approach different question types and manage test day effectively.
Experience with Children:
In my career, I’ve worked with children from elementary through high school in both individual and group settings. I have also coached youth sports, where I taught life skills and built confidence through team activities, fostering a growth mindset. Additionally, I’ve worked as a coach for high school baseball, where I mentored athletes in performance under pressure, which translates well into the mental and emotional preparation needed for test-taking.
Experience with Online Teaching:
More recently, I’ve been teaching on platforms like Outschool, where I have developed courses that emphasize practical, hands-on learning. I’ve created courses that are specifically designed for students with special needs, including those requiring accommodations, and I have experience delivering content in a way that is both engaging and accessible for students working at their own pace.Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$2
weekly or $12 for all content9 pre-recorded lessons
8 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Choose your start date
Ages: 12-18
