Test Best For Test Prep

Description

This test prep series from Steck-Vaughn does what others do not - it includes levels beyond the 8th grade. For both the 9th and 10th grades, there are two books - one covering math and the other covering reading and language arts skills. Both levels follow a similar format: units covering reading test-taking strategies, modeled instruction for reading comprehension, reading comprehension practice, reading vocabulary, math problem solving strategies, math problem solving, listening, and language plus five practice tests, one for each subject area - reading comprehension, reading vocabulary, math, listening, and language. Each level provides grade specific instruction and practice. Test question approaches include understanding directions, suggestions for "Try This," worked samples, Think It Through sections, and actual test practice. Practice tests as well as sample problems all include bubble answer sheets. Student books include instructions, samples, and practice tests. Teacher books include reduced student pages with answers, some teacher helps, a scope and sequence, suggestions for teaching and administering each of the lessons and tests, and scripting for "giving" the practice tests so students become familiar with the conditions that parallel those they will face when taking standardized tests. What they don't include are suggested time frames for students taking the sample tests. Because this series has an older copyright, the language section includes exercises for strengthening writing skills but does not require actual composition. Janice

Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.