Creating Math Practice Questions for ELA Common Core

posted by Karen Quinn, The Testing Mom - October 18th, 2014

If your child is facing an upcoming ELA Common Core test which will feature math, you’re probably wondering about the best and most effective way to help them prepare and study. With the large number of standardized tests facing students today and the ever-increasing pressure involved, test preparation has become much more common than in recent years. Just a few years ago, test preparation was considered something reserved for children in either remedial classes or those striving toward advanced placement. Today, every student in both public and private schools is virtually expected to do at least some test prep at home.

Importance of Test Prep

Due to this change in the educational environment, test prep for the ELA Common Core is really not an option anymore. Students who wish to perform to their highest ability need some form of test prep. Not only does it help to sharpen their minds and ready them for the upcoming test, but it can give them a valuable advantage over peers who have not prepared. Simply becoming familiar with the testing format is a huge asset, since it helps avoid testing day confusion.

There are many different types of math practice questions and full study guides available for purchase, both in bookstores and online. You can view an example of a comprehensive guide at http://www.curriculumassociates.com/products/ready-common-core.aspx.

The decision of whether to purchase testing study materials or create your own DIY ELA Common Core questions is every parent’s personal choice. Many parents feel that ready-made guides are more complete, while others maintain that a parent knows their child best and is therefore better suited to creating a study guide tailored to that child’s strengths and weaknesses.

How to Create a Study Guide

A great first step is to view an online version of the ELA Common Core test. While current test versions are not available for obvious reasons, many older versions are officially ‘released’ to allow parents and students to familiarize themselves with the testing format. Taking a look at some of these released tests will give you a better idea of how to format your own questions. Once you’ve gotten an idea of how the questions may be formatted, simply use your child’s current textbook to choose appropriate math practice questions.