High school is filled with events from football games to prom night, but there is one event that puts students and teachers to the test, PSAT and SAT testing. While students are studying for what seems like endless hours, teachers study for a different test- How to stay concentrated throughout hours of testing without causing distraction and keeping students focused on the big day.
“Watching over students during SAT/PSAT testing without electronics can be stressful! Not because I can’t use electronics, just because I want to make sure the test goes well for kids, and everything runs smoothly,” explains Mrs. Vens, an English teacher at the high school.
When the big day arrives, keeping students focused on the test is crucial, but quite simple, due to the rules of the test itself “Because they can’t bring anything into the test, they don’t have much of a choice to be either engaged with the test or not,” notes Mrs. Vens
Teachers have a full day on the testing day, making sure not only the students focus is on the test, but their own focus. “We are always very focused. There is actually a lot we have to document during the testing. We have to make sure that we keep track of what students are doing, so we really are pretty busy,” shares Mrs. Vens.
Just like how practice makes perfect, preparation is key for keeping a serious atmosphere throughout the test. In Mrs. Vens’ words, she explains, “I think if teachers prepare for their roles as supervisors, they will be good.”
As for keeping entertained during testing, Mrs. Vens makes sure everything that needs to be done, is done. “I go through a checklist of what needs to be done for supervisors. I wouldn’t say it’s fun, but it keeps me busy,” shares Mrs Vens.
Additionally, Mrs. Vroman, a Chemistry and AP Environmental Science Teacher at the Rock Island High School uses the time for productivity. “I think about lesson planning for the upcoming week. I walk around and get as many steps as I possibly can,” says Mrs. Vroman.
While in some cases, teachers might see PSAT and SAT testing as not exciting, Others like Mrs. Vroman likes the chance testing gives to catch up. “I like the ability to catch up on grading when I don’t have to supervise. I find the testing day boring overall and not my favorite part of teaching,” confesses Mrs. Vroman.
In conclusion, supervising PSAT and SAT testing may not be the most enjoyable task for teachers, but it’s an important one.
