Test Anxiety: Strategies to Improve Student Performance

Testing—especially high-stakes testing—is playing an increasing role in schools, giving rise to higher levels of anxiety for both students and teachers. As a result, many students are actually experiencing performance declines rather than improvements. This reference guide is specifically designed to provide teachers with practical, evidence-based strategies for reducing test-related anxiety and improving test performance and overall well-being in students ranging from elementary to high school age.The guide includes recommendations for teaching effective study skills & habits, as well as specific test-taking skills. It also describes how to teach students stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, freewriting, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, mindfulness and meditation, and positive self-talk.