Test-Taking Strategies for Math in Elementary
Mar 12, 2025Click the play bar below to listen to this week's show now:
Show Notes:
If the thought of standardized tests makes you anxious and stressed, you’re not alone. Most teachers dread this time of year for that very reason! That’s why we’re continuing our series on standardized test preparation. If you missed last week’s episode, be sure to check it out. I shared test-taking strategies specifically for English Language Arts assessments that you won’t want to miss.
In today’s episode, we’re shifting our focus to math. I’m sharing five powerful test-taking strategies to help second to fifth grade students perform their best on the math portion of the assessment. Since math comes with its own unique challenges, these strategies are designed to tackle common problem areas while also boosting student confidence—because confidence plays a huge role in overall performance!
While these strategies will strengthen your students’ math test-taking skills in elementary school, it’s important to remember that many factors influencing standardized test scores are out of your control. And with so many school and district decisions tied to those scores, that can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: You do have control over how you teach the standards, how you equip your students with effective strategies, and how you create a supportive testing environment.
To give your students the best chance for success, I recommend introducing these strategies 4-6 weeks before the test. But don’t worry, it’s not all work and no fun! Be sure to incorporate celebrations, recognize student growth, and keep the process engaging so students feel prepared, relaxed, and confident on test day.
If you are a member of the Classroom Management Club, you're going to get a PDF overview of everything that we cover in this episode. Curious about joining? Take my free class: Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset to learn more and join with a special discount!
Inside this week's show, you'll learn:
- 5 new test-taking strategies designed for math assessments
- Why you need to focus on what you can control versus all the factors you can’t control
- An important reminder that your self-worth is not correlated to student performance scores
- The R.E.L.A.X. test-strategy that can be used in math or language arts.
- How to help students break down word problems using the C.U.B.E. strategy
- A fun bonus strategy that builds student confidence before the big test
Links & resources mentioned inside this episode:
- Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset
- Love Notes for Your Kiddos | Positive Bookmarks & Surprises
- Love Notes for Your Kiddos | Positive Certificates & Surprises
- Growth Mindset Bookmarks | Positivity in the Classroom
- Farmhouse Chic Decor: Growth Mindset Positive Affirmation Mirror Cards Editable:
- Snoop Dog's Affirmations for Kids Song
- Reference: Math Test-Taking Strategies for Elementary Students
- Reference: How to Solve Math Word Problems
- Grab your Growth Mindset Bookmarks from my TPT store.
- Download the free Growth Mindset Bookmarks.
- Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms
- Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant.
- Enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card by leaving a review for Beginning Teacher Talk on Apple Podcasts!
- Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram
- Follow Dr. Lori on Facebook
- Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok
I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.
💛 Lori
Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor
Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.
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Related episodes you might enjoy:
- Helpful Test-Taking Strategies in Elementary Language Arts
- 10 Enrichment Ideas (for High Achieving Students in Math and ELA)
- Ultimate Student Engagement: 5 Positive, Easy, & Creative Ways to Get & Keep Your Students’ Attention
- 5 Great Ways to Spice Up Boring Curriculum & Increase Engagement
- What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Teacher’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety
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