Student emotional intelligence and self-awareness can be a challenge when testing their knowledge. Their self-confidence can be impacted by external factors that have nothing to do with the actual content they are being tested on. As a result, the test scores are not aligned with the students’ level of knowledge. As educators, there are ways that we can motivate students and help them build their self-confidence going into the testing season. See some suggested strategies below.
Motivational Strategies
- Encourage a Growth Mindset – Remind students that tests measure progress, not just performance. Praise their effort and improvement.
- Set Achievable Goals – Help students set realistic targets for each test and celebrate small wins.
- Incorporate Positive Affirmations – Start each test day with affirmations like “I am prepared,” “I am capable,” or “I will do my best.”
- Use Motivational Quotes – Display quotes around the classroom or create a “Wall of Encouragement.”
- Gamify Studying – Use review games, quizzes, or team challenges to make test preparation engaging.
- Provide Incentives – Offer non-material rewards like extra recess, a fun class activity, or certificates for effort and improvement.
Wellness and Stress-Reduction Strategies
- Promote Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques – Teach students deep breathing exercises or quick stretching routines.
- Ensure Proper Sleep and Nutrition – Encourage students to rest well and eat a healthy breakfast before tests. Provide food options.
- Play Energizing or Calming Music – Use music to boost motivation before testing or calm nerves right before starting. Survey students for songs that motivate them.
- Create a Comfortable Testing Environment – Ensure proper lighting, seating, and temperature to help students focus.
Test-Taking Strategies
- Teach Time Management Skills – Encourage students to pace themselves and allocate time wisely for each question.
- Use Encouraging Phrases During Prep – Instead of saying “Don’t stress,” say “You’ve got this!” or “Just do your best!”
- Practice Positive Self-Talk – Teach students to replace “I can’t do this” with “I’ll try my best.”
- Break Material Into Manageable Sections – Review one concept at a time to avoid overwhelming students.
Testing Integrity Strategies
- Review Testing Security Expectations in a Positive Way – Instead of focusing on what students can’t do, highlight the importance of fairness and honesty.
- Use Encouragement Instead of Pressure – Avoid high-stakes language and instead focus on effort and learning.
- Set Clear Expectations for Behavior – Reinforce the importance of following instructions without making it intimidating.
- Provide Engaging Review Sessions – Avoid last-minute cramming by making study sessions interactive and collaborative.
- Ensure a Supportive Atmosphere – Remind students that doing their best is what matters most, and their integrity is valued.
- Celebrate Hard Work After Testing – Plan a small celebration, like a fun activity or class discussion about what they learned.
A safe, well-fed, calm, mentally prepared student will be able to focus on the task at hand. We are hopeful the strategies we are sharing will support you in guiding your students to success.