Test Prep and Weekend Homework

Testing season has quickly arrived, which will change a few elements to our regular class day and homework assignments.

Since September, we have been completing writing assignments that are similar to what will be on the English Language Arts state exam. For example, your child has read many passages from NY Studies Weekly, as well as other social studies-based readings, and then answered text-based questions. Those writing assignments are formatted similarly to the constructed response questions that will be on the ELA exam in the beginning of April. 

As the weeks progress, we will continue to practice both constructed responses (short responses) and essays (extended responses). These responses will be kept in the classroom so that we can refer to them often and use them as a responsive assessment tool. If you are interested in receiving a copy of any of the writing assignments, please send a note to school and we will send home a copy for you to keep.

We will also practice answering multiple choice questions two to three times throughout the week, in addition to giving homework assignments that mirror this work.

In regards to math, we are progressing at a steady pace through the curriculum. The main focus of the math state exam will be multiplication, division, fractions, and word problems. This week we began Topic 12: Adding and Subtracting Fractions and Mixed Numbers with Like Denominators.  

As of this weekend, the entire fourth grade will begin weekend testing homework. The 4-312 students will receive the weekend assignment every Thursday, and the assignment will be due the following Monday. Each week, we will send home explicit directions on how to complete the homework and how to set up a productive work space. Please review the directions carefully with your child, but allow them to complete the assignment independently.

Please note the state testing dates:

ELA: April 2-4*

Math: May 1-3*

*The state has listed three testing dates; however, the exam should span over two days. We will confirm the dates with you once we get the finalized dates from the city. 

Lastly, if your child is working with a tutor, please let us know. We want to make sure the tutor does not use the same reading passages we use in class. Additionally, we are happy to speak with your child's tutor to let them know the specific areas on which to focus with your child. 

Thank you!