3RD GRADE ISAT

							                  3RD GRADE ISAT
ISAT OVERVIEW
There are 2 subject areas that the 3rd graders will be tested in.
They are:
Reading- (3 sessions)
   1st session – 6 short passages and multiple choice questions
   2nd Session - 2 long passages, 1 extended response, and 1
     functional passage
   3rd Session - 2 long passages, 1 extended response, and 1
     functional passage
Math-(3 sessions)
   1st Session - multiple choice questions
   2nd Session - multiple choice questions and short responses
   3rd Session – 2 extended response questions



Testing Schedule
   The ISAT is scheduled for February 28th – March 11th.
   We will be testing everyday from 9:00-10:30 A.M.
   If you child is absent or late they will have to complete
     make-up exams in another classroom, without the
     instructional aides.
   Your child will be placed in the multi-purpose room during
     testing if they arrive late. PLEASE BE ON TIME!

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Tuesday
Reading Reading Reading    Math    Math    Math
Session Session Session   Session Session Session
   1       2       3         1      2       3
           Frequently Asked Questions


  1. What do the scores mean?

  Scores provide various pieces of information. We are able to
  study a classes results and make curriculum decisions

  Scores indicate a child’s strengths and weaknesses in reading
  and math. The reading results are broken into subcategories
  vocabulary, comprehension, literary elements (theme, setting,
  genres, etc) and reading strategies. Math results are broken
  into number sense (place value, addition/subtraction, etc.)
  interpreting data, geometry, and algebra. From the results,
  parents and teachers can focus in on areas of need in everyday
  learning. The results are also used school-wide to make
  curricular decisions.

  2. How often should my child study for the ISAT?

We strongly believe children who have regular reading and study
routines perform very well. We encourage all families to have a
specific homework time and regular bedtime routine to help
students get the most of their learning experience at school.

Study materials will be arriving soon and we will be using the
materials in class as well as for homework.

  3. When will we receive the scores?

In early June the school will receive preliminary results which
include the SAT-10 results. The SAT-10 score is the results of
the first reading and the first math test. These scores are used
determine promotion to 4th grade. Parents will be notified of
their child’s percentile rank. Please refer to the promotion policy
for further information.

The composite scores which reflect all of the tests taken are
typically received in September.

  4. What can I do to help my child avoid test anxiety?

Regular routines for study and sleep are important. Do not
change the routines just for the testing. Exercise and
participation in extra-curricular activities also help children to
build confidence in various situations. If you notice your child
becoming anxious with work, remind them of strategies to help
refocus such as: deep breaths, neck rolls, shake out the hands,
etc. If questions seem difficult, remind your child of strategies
such as: process of elimination to help narrow down answer
choices, return to the text, using background knowledge, solve
the problem a second time, skip and go on, etc.

  5. Has my child been practicing for the ISAT?

We believe the curriculum and quality of instruction at Murray
properly prepare our students for ISAT. Within our daily
lessons, students are practicing higher-order thinking and
constantly sharing their thinking to explain how they came to
their conclusion.

In addition, students are exposed to test scenarios that allow
them to experience the format and time restrictions. We also
teach the students strategies for success on reading and math
extended responses.
What we are doing to prepare for ISAT but more importantly,
life.

       What We are Doing to Prepare for ISAT Reading

We are reading various genres.
Nonfiction
TFK
Science text and articles
Social Studies text and articles
Independent reading selecting high interest topics

Fiction
Realistic Fiction
Fantasy
Historical Fiction
Folk Tales, Fairy Tales, Fables
Poetry Study

Writing About Our Reading
Graphic Organizers
Book Recommendations
Extended Response

What Can be Done at Home
Read, read, read! Help your child to be aware of the print that
surrounds them including: newspapers, independent books, road
signs, grocery lists, sale signs, etc.
Test Prep Books
Study Island
        What We are Doing to Prepare for ISAT Math

Mathematical Concepts Explored in Class
Geometry
Place value up to 100,000
Multiplication and division
Solving Number Stories
Map Scale
Fractions
Coordinates
Time and elapsed time
Probability
Organizing Data – Graphing
Measurement – proper use of a ruler

Extended Response
We are explicitly teaching how to answer an extended response
Question. The students must show their work through either a
drawing, chat, diagram, or graph. They then must explain in words
what they did to answer the question and why.

What can be done at Home
Help your child to see that math is everywhere! Mentally add the
cost of groceries, estimate distances, talk about strategies for
solving problems, keep a money journal, etc.
Test Prep Books
Study Island