My daughter is having trouble with the verbal math questions for the OLSAT®. I keep trying to practice with her using the workbook we bought but she’s not getting it. What do I do?

Working with OLSAT practice questions

If you’re using a workbook to practice OLSAT Verbal questions, giving your daughter more of the same type of question will not help if she’s already not getting it. Instead, look at the skill behind the question and work on it in the real world.

For instance, a workbook question might typically ask, Bill ate two pieces of pizza and Bobby ate four pieces, pointing to the picture showing how many pieces of pizza Billy and Bobby ate together.  Ask yourself first if your child is even ready to answer this question: Can she count? Can she really understand what numbers are and what they look like?  Your daughter needs to see the skill in action and understand it before she’ll be able to use it in a workbook.  Show the problem to her in the real world: give her a number of goldfish crackers or M&Ms and then ask, “If I eat one, how many are left?”  Let her count one by one, let her use her fingers, or do anything she needs to figure it out.  As long as she’s learning the skill, it’s fine.  Once your daughter gets the hang of this, she will work her way up to it in the workbook.

If your child is having trouble with matrix questions and analogies, focus on how things relate to each other in real life.  Point out things that are alike and things that are different and ask your child how they are similar.  On page 135 of Karen’s book, Testing for Kindergarten, a very helpful analogy game can also help with this skill.

For more tips with OLSAT questions:

It’s completely normal for students to struggle with the verbal math questions on the OLSAT® — you’re not alone! These problems require kids to process information quickly, visualize the math described in words, and apply reasoning skills all at once, which can feel overwhelming at first.

Here’s what you can do:

• Break the questions down — Read them together slowly, and have your daughter draw pictures or diagrams to represent the scenarios. Visual aids can make abstract word problems much more concrete.
• Build math vocabulary — Make sure she’s comfortable with terms like “difference,” “sum,” “greater than,” etc. The language of math can sometimes be the biggest barrier.
• Practice with variety — Mix in different types of verbal math questions beyond the workbook. Flashcards, games, or even making up real-life problems together (like counting snacks or toys) can make it click.
• Take the pressure off — Celebrate small wins. If she feels anxious, she might shut down. Keep the tone light and encouraging to build her confidence.

Most importantly, keep going! These skills take time, but with regular, positive practice, your daughter will absolutely improve. If you need extra support, consider guided practice or a tutor familiar with OLSAT strategies to give her that extra boost. TestingMom.com offers online tutoring — CLICK HERE for more information.