MSA Preparation

This week, the students and teachers of Grade 3 are beginning to talk about the Maryland State Assessments. These assessments will begin on March 3.  Though this feels a long way off, it is actually only 12 weeks away!

To prepare students we will:

• Hold a parent information session on Friday, December 7 during the winter dance.  3,4 and 5th grade teachers will be on hand to answer all of your questions, including me!
• Change the format of our homework to focus on test taking skills and content that we know students need to review before the test.  We will continue to review homework daily in class.
• Change our spelling words to use important Grade 3 vocabulary words as an extra review in January and February.
• Have Reading and Math focus groups to review and practice skills and discuss test taking tips each day from 1:30-2:00.

How you can help your child succeed:

• Be informed and know about the test: What is the MSA? What does it look like?
• Ensure your child is completing their homework each night.  We will be going over it in class each day.
• When you see your child is struggling with a particular concept or skill, write me a note to let me know.  Try and find some web resources to help them develop this skill or gain a better understanding.
• Utilize math games to help them review concepts such as money and time that they need for the test: Grade 3 Math MSA Review Games
• Ensure that your child write answers to questions in complete sentences and uses vocabulary words they are learning and practicing at school.

I look forward to seeing you on Friday night and working with you to ensure your child is prepared and successful in March!