What Has Breed Done to Prepare My Child for the MCAS Exam?

Breed Middle School is committed to ensuring that each child in our care receives an appropriate standards-driven education.  Our teachers follow a set curriculum to be sure all students are exposed to the necessary topics and skill sets needed to succeed in school and the outside world.  These topics and areas of study are assessed on the MCAS Test.  We believe that if your child has attended school regularly, completed their assignments, and participated in class lectures and discussions, they have the tools needed to meet the requirements of the exam.  Also, teachers have spent time before and after school for those students wishing for extra help.  We have also included test taking strategies as part of our curriculum so students are comfortable with the format of standardized testing situations. 

How Can I Help My Child Succeed on Test Day?

Although some students when faced with a standardized test begin to panic, it is important to let your child know you care about them regardless how they perform on the test.  It is also important to ease your child’s nerves by reminding them of all the practice and instruction they received.  At Breed we provide the tools necessary for your child to reach their potential on test day.  It would benefit greatly if they get a good nights sleep beforehand, took deep breaths and participated in positive self talk, such as, “I know I am ready and can do my best”.

Guidance Cares: If there are any issues or concerns you would like to discuss with your child’s guidance counselor please contact them at 781-477-7323.

What Do I Do on the Morning of the Test?

Ø      Eat a healthy breakfast

Ø      Have a positive attitude

Ø      Get to school on time (7:30am)

Ø      Have all materials ready

Ø      Believe in yourself and breathe

Open House Information

The next open house will take place on March 8, 2006 from 2:30pm-4:00pm.  A Spanish interpreter is available to those that would like this service.  Please call ahead and place your name on the list (781) 477-7220.

What are Some Ways I can Help my Child Succeed?

1)      Set an example.  Let your child catch you reading and enjoying it.

2)      Pay attention to your child’s schoolwork.  Ask, “What are you learning?”, or review homework together.

3)      Offer support.  Provide reassurances and help as your child tackles difficult assignments.

4)      Organize a quiet study area at home for your child with pens, paper, etc.

5)      Be positive about education.  Show how much you enjoy and value learning.

6)      Promote good health habits.  If your child gets enough sleep, balanced meals, and proper exercise, classroom participation and learning will be easier.

7)      Offer praise for your child’s achievements and efforts.  Praise builds self-esteem and encourages children to do their best.

8)      Discuss current events with your child to promote an interest in learning about the world.

9)      Stimulate your child’s interests by having a variety of reading material at home.  Also, you can accompany them to the library when able.

10)  Be in constant communication with your child’s teachers to learn about his learning style and specific ways you can help your child.

11)  Be available when your child wants to talk about school or other issues. Then offer help and advice as needed.

BE SURE YOUR CHILD IS PRESENT AND ON TIME EVERY DAY  (7:30am)

Test

Date

Sessions

Grades

English Language and Literature

March 27-April 7

3 (45 minutes)

6,7,8

English Composition

March 29

2 (45 minutes)

7

Math

May 15-June 2

2 (60 minutes)

6,7,8

Science & Technology

May 15 –June 2

2 (60 minute)

8

History and Social Science TRYOUT

May 15-June 2

1 (60 minutes)

7