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TCAP Testing Begins April 27

Published April 26, 2012

In just a few short hours, thousands of Williamson County students in grades three through eight will begin the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program Achievement Test.  The TCAP testing window for Williamson County Schools runs from April 27-May 4.  The TCAP exam is a timed, multiple choice test that measures skills in reading, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. 

State law requires that each student's TCAP score count as part of his or her semester average.  Per WCS School Board policy 4.700 (Testing Programs), a student's TCAP scores will comprise 15 percent of the final second semester grades.  In addition, TCAP performance results will be used in determining each student's learning path for the future school year.

"The results we receive after testing allow students, parents, teachers, counselors and administrators to make informed decisions for the next year," said WCS Assessment Analyst Kevin Deck.  "Identifying areas of strength or weakness can drive enrichment or remediation plans.  The detailed scoring reports can help us identify mastery of the previous year’s learning targets, and that in turn helps in planning each student’s course of study."

Students can prepare for the exam by taking a PRACTICE TEST.  Below, you will find a few test-taking tips provided by the Tennessee Department of Education for both parents and students.

TIPS FOR PARENTS

  • See that your child is rested and eats breakfast the day of the test.

  • See that your child arrives to school on time and is relaxed.

  • Discuss the test openly and in a positive way.

  • Talk to your child's teacher to find out the areas they need the most help.

  • Designate a study time for your child without the distraction of TV, phone and other devices.

TIPS FOR STUDENTS

  • Read and pay careful attention to all directions.

  • Read each passage and accompanying questions.

  • Read every possible answer - the best one could be last.

  • Read and respond to items one at a time rather than thinking about the whole test.

  • Don't spend too much time on any one question.

  • Don't make uneducated guesses. Try to get the correct answer by reasoning and eliminating wrong answers.

  • Skip difficult questions until all other questions have been answered.

  • After completing the test, use any remaining time to check your answers.

  • Keep a good attitude and think positively.