MCAS Tip #3

Relax and go to bed at a reasonable hour the night before the test.
The MCAS test is designed to measure general knowledge skills and achievement. There is no specific information that you have to learn or can study to prepare for it. Rather, interpreting information provided and understanding basic principles and how to apply them are the keys to success on the test. In reality, all the time you have spent in classes at school and doing lesson assignments and practice problems at home represents your study and preparation efforts for the MCAS test

Try and mentally review the major books that you have read Freshman and Soph year. You will most likely have a general writing prompt that may call on you to use a novel or a character as the basis of your writing.

Relax the night before the test. Watch television, play a game of Halo, read a novel, socialize with your friends, or do something else you find relaxing. Then go to sleep at your usual bedtime to make sure you get sufficient rest. Do not go to bed early. If you do, you probably won't be tired and will only end up lying awake thinking (and worrying) about the test! And that will only make it more difficult for you to perform well the next day. Relaxing ensures you will be ready to put forth your best effort at exam time. Make sure you get a solid night sleep for the three days preceding the test. One night of good solid sleep will help- 3 days will make you recharged and ready to rock.

Eat a carbohydrate based meal. My suggestion- a big bowl of pasta. You want energy that will not burn out in the morning.
Have a solid breakfast- even if you normally skip it as many teenagers will do. Avoid energy that you will burn through fast. Slow and steady always wins the race :-)

Be confident! Positive attitude has been proven to lead to improved scores. Tantasqua has prepared you well, and you WILL do a great job!