Ever notice how test time seems to crank up the stress levels in your classroom? If you’re nodding along, wondering how to ease your students’ test jitters, I’ve got a secret weapon for you: growth mindset read alouds. Today, letβs explore how the right stories can not only calm those test-time nerves but also inspire our students to face challenges with courage and resilience.
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How Can I Make Test Prep Less Stressful for My Students?
Navigating through test season can be a challenging time for both teachers and students. Here are five strategies to help reduce stress and create a more positive test prep experience:
- Incorporate Growth Mindset Stories: Dive into books that champion resilience, effort, and learning from mistakes. Sharing stories of characters who overcome obstacles can inspire students to tackle their tests with confidence and perseverance. ππ±
- Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Begin or end your test prep sessions with mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or guided imagery. These practices can help students manage anxiety and maintain focus during study sessions and the tests themselves. π§ββοΈπββοΈ
- Create a Supportive Test Prep Environment: Ensure your classroom is a space where questions are encouraged and mistakes are seen as learning opportunities. Foster an atmosphere of support where students feel comfortable sharing their concerns and strategies. π€π½π«
- Break Down Test Prep into Manageable Chunks: Avoid overwhelming students with too much material at once. Break down the content into smaller, more manageable pieces, and provide regular breaks to help keep stress levels low and engagement high. ποΈβ³
- Offer Encouragement and Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small victories and progress along the way. Recognizing effort and improvement can boost morale and motivate students to keep pushing forward, reminding them that growth is a process. ππ
By implementing these strategies, you can help make test prep a more positive and less stressful experience for your students, paving the way for success both in and out of the classroom.
Why Focus on Growth Mindset During Test Prep?
Because test prep is more than just about academics. Itβs a prime time to teach life lessons about grit, resilience, and the power of “yet.” Introducing a growth mindset helps students see challenges as opportunities to get better, not as insurmountable obstacles. This can transform test prep from a daunting task into an empowering experience that prepares them for more than just tests.
Check out my blog post titled “How To Instill a Growth Mindset in The Classroom” to learn more tips on teaching growth mindset to your students.
Dive Into Growth Mindset Read Alouds
Before we dive into some fabulous book picks that Iβll share in a bit, let’s talk about why these growth mindset read alouds are game-changers. These stories do more than entertain; they open up conversations about persistence, learning from failure, and believing in oneself. They show our students that success is about more than getting it right the first time; it’s about continuing to try and improve.
The Girl who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett
“The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes” is a heartwarming tale that gently unfolds the journey of Beatrice Bottomwell, a girl renowned for her perfection. Through her story, young readers discover the beauty and freedom in embracing mistakes and the joy that comes from trying new things. It’s a delightful read that encourages children to find the courage to let go of the fear of failure and celebrate life’s imperfections with a smile. πππ
The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
“The Most Magnificent Thing” by Ashley Spires is an inspiring story that follows a young girl and her best friend as they set out to make the most magnificent thing. Despite facing setbacks, her journey teaches the valuable lesson of perseverance and the importance of keeping a positive attitude when things don’t go as planned. This charming book is a testament to the power of creativity and finding the magnificent in the midst of challenges. π οΈπ‘β€οΈ
Thank You, Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco
“Thank You, Mr. Falker” by Patricia Polacco is a touching tribute to the teachers who make a difference. This autobiographical story shares the struggles of young Trisha, who finds reading incredibly challenging, until Mr. Falker, a dedicated teacher, recognizes her difficulty and helps her overcome her dyslexia. It’s a powerful and emotional reminder of how patience, understanding, and encouragement can transform lives. ππ‘β€οΈ
Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak
“Your Fantastic Elastic Brain: Stretch It, Shape It” is an engaging exploration of the wonders of the human brain, tailored for young learners. This book breaks down complex concepts into fun, digestible pieces. It shows kids how making mistakes, trying new things, and practicing hard tasks can literally stretch and shape their brains. It’s a vibrant and encouraging reminder that learning is a journey filled with endless possibilities for growth. π§ β¨π
Ish by Peter H. Reynolds.
“Ish” by Peter H. Reynolds captures the story of Ramon, who loves to draw, but starts doubting his abilities when criticized. This beautifully illustrated book teaches children that creativity doesnβt have to be perfect to be beautiful. It shows that embracing an “ish” perspective can lead to a freeing and joyous expression of self. It’s a reminder that the value of work lies in the process of creation, not just the final product. π¨β¨β€οΈ
Brave Irene by William Steig
“Brave Irene” by William Steig is a tale of courage and determination that follows young Irene Bobbin, who embarks on a daunting journey to deliver a dress made by her sick mother to the duchess. Despite facing fierce winter storms, Irene’s resilience and bravery shine. Readers learn about the power of persistence and the strength found in facing challenges head-on. Itβs a heartening story that celebrates the spirit of bravery in the face of adversity. π¨βοΈπ
The Oldest Student by Rita Lorraine Hubbard
“The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read” by Rita Lorraine Hubbard and illustrated by Oge Mora, tells the inspiring true story of Mary Walker, who, at the age of 116, learned to read. This book is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Readers are reminded of the endless possibilities that open up when we embrace learning. πβ¨π
The Magical Yet by Angela Diterlizzi
“The Magical Yet” by Angela DiTerlizzi is an uplifting story that introduces children to their own personal Yet, a magical creature symbolizing the potential within each of us to achieve things we haven’t managed…yet. This book helps readers to understand that mastering new skills takes time, persistence, and a positive mindset. β¨ππ
After the Fall by Dan Santat
“After the Fall” by Dan Santat is a captivating and beautifully illustrated tale that picks up where the classic nursery rhyme leaves off. It tells the story of Humpty Dumpty’s journey to overcome his fear of heights after his infamous fall. This narrative explores themes of anxiety, resilience, and the courage it takes to get back up and face our fears. π₯β¨π§ββοΈ
A Lesson on Embracing Challenges
For those ready to dive deeper, I recommend our After the Fall: Humpty Dumpty Read Aloud Companion Activities. It’s a fantastic resource for any teacher looking to pair a great story with activities that reinforce growth mindset concepts. Perfect for making those test prep sessions not only educational but truly impactful.
Looking for More Test Prep Resources?
Stay tuned, because thereβs plenty more where that came from. Our blog is packed with resources, tips, and strategies to help you and your students navigate test season with ease and confidence. Click the links below for more posts that will arm you with everything you need to support your students in the best way possible.
- 10 Test Prep Ideas for Upper Elementary Classrooms That DO NOT Work
- 10 Tips and Ideas for Math Test Prep in Upper Elementary Classrooms
- Easy and Effective ELA Test Prep Ideas for Upper Elementary
Wrapping Up
Incorporating growth mindset read alouds into your test prep routine is more than just a teaching strategy. It’s a gift of resilience and perspective you give your students. Itβs about showing them that every challenge is an opportunity to grow. They need to know that their efforts are just as important as their achievements.
So, as we gear up for test time, letβs fill our classrooms with stories of courage, perseverance, and growth. Hereβs to teaching that inspires! π¦
