Testing Treats

So in 23 short days my 3rd graders will be taking standardized tests in Reading, Math, Social Studies and Sciences that covers curriculum from grades K though 3. Since this is my first year in a testing grade I thought it would be cute to give them a daily motivating treat. After scouring the internet I've created some treat tags that I cant wait to use. I haven't decided if I will enlist parents to donate treats or if I will just get them from my local Sam's Club and Walmart, but no matter how I get them, I'm sure students will enjoy them!
Testing Treats
What ideas do you have for motivating students during testing time?

FACES of a Reader Strategy Cards

I was inspired  by these two blogs
http://firstgradeowls.blogspot.com/2011/07/dont-you-just-love-freebies.html
http://www.eduperry.com/2011/03/face-of-reader.html
to type the strategy cards this year instead of write them out. The strategies for test come from test taking strategy posters I have and from the book Test Talk.

FACES Menu Strategy Cards

FACES of a Reader Menu

I was back in my classroom today and I feel pretty confident that'll all come together, just need to get the rest of these 50 boxes out of my dining room and into my classroom! I blogged yesterday about the FACES of a reader. I finished the menu. I will be working on the strategy cards next.

FACE Menu 3rd Revised

FACE of a Reader & Test Talk

Last year I did my version of the CAFE, it was called FACE of a Reader
(read about it here http://www.mswinston.com/Reading%20Workshop.html)

With my transition to 3rd grade and standardized testing I am reading a book called Test Talk that incorporates testing taking strategies into reading workshop. I am pleased to find out that this book was written by two Virginia Teachers!

I'm thinkin of continuing to do my FACE of a Reader board but I was thinking about changing Extending Vocabulary to Expanding Test Taking Strategies. And list the strategies that I'm reading about under this section.

That means I needed to make some slight changes to my FACE posters.
FACE Menu Headers 3rd
How do you display test taking strategies in your classroom?

Test Talk

I just received a new book I ordered called Test Talk: Integrating Test Prep into Reading Workshop. Most of you know that after 7 years in 2nd grade I am finally entering the world of standardized testing. I'm excited and nervous all at the same time. I my biggest fear is for me to teach my new 3rd graders an entire year only to have them fail their end of the year assessments. I can't wait to dive into it, after I finish with Vacation Bible School next week I intend to dive head first into this read. Have you read the book? Tell me what you think in a comment below!