“I’d Rather Do Anything Than Write This Test”

Looking at Test Anxiety Through a Multidisciplinary Lens

By Ben Beland and Suneet Kharey

December 6, 2019
 Data Collection
Our data collection was done throughout the quarter in the form of
paper surveys, and formative discussion.

The collection method was:

1. Initial survey at first summative assessment

2. Verbal feedback and discussion
3. Short paper survey at midterm
4. Survey at the end of course
Survey Results: I am afraid to give an incorrect answer
in Math/Social class
Survey Results: I feel confident when taking a
Math/Social test
Survey Results: What part of Math/Social causes you
the most stress?
 Describe below how you prepare for a
Math/Social test:
Math Social
● Make study notes
● Study the night before/ morning of the test
● Study 2-3 nights before
● Do homework questions
● Create cue cards
● Quiz myself
● Read textbook
● Review notes booklet
● Wing it
● Read the textbook
● Create practice tests
● Review my notes before each class
● Come to flex time
● Study with a friend
● Alberta Exam Bank
● I don’t
 Strategies
Strategies from students… Strategies from our research…
● Study guides ● Going through a general test outline the day before
● Give us lots of time! ● Go through the test with students as soon as its handed
● Review time right before the test out to clarify any misconceptions
● Please just give us the test questions ● Focus on wellness: well-rested the night before,
nutrition, exercise, water.

Our Approach
Looking at our survey results, we noticed certain areas where we could improve. We focused on
building classroom community so students would feel more comfortable asking questions. We
decided to try a different approach before every summative assessment.

It was a combination of research and student suggested strategies that were ultimately implemented.
 Strategies Implemented
Math Social Studies

1. Study guide week before test 1. Provide writing prompts early

2. Reviewing test before starting 2. Using sources from class, on tests
3. Prayer before writing the test 3. Provide sample test questions
4. Quiet study time before the test 4. Scheduling full blocks to be used for review (both
5. Class study time before the test guided and individual)
6. Quiet reflection time to relax 5. Scheduling writing workshops pre and post written
7. Practising questions similar to test assessments
questions 6. Give students 15-20mins before writing the test to
8. Having students create test review
questions 7. Allowing students to bring in previous writing
9. Eating before the test samples into tests for reference
10. Exercise before the test 8. Providing students with in-depth study guides
9. Allowing the students opportunities to improve their
marks
 Which strategies were most successful?*
*According to our exit surveys and in class discussions
Math Social Studies

1. Study guide week before test 1. Provide writing prompts early

2. Reviewing test before starting 2. Using sources from class, on tests
3. Prayer before writing the test 3. Provide sample test questions
4. Quiet study time before the test 4. Scheduling full blocks to be used for review (both
5. Class study time before the test guided and individual)
6. Quiet reflection time to relax 5. Scheduling writing workshops pre and post written
7. Practising questions similar to test assessments
questions 6. Give students 15-20 mins before writing the test to
8. Having students create test review
questions 7. Allowing students to bring in previous writing
9. Eating before the test samples into tests for reference
10. Exercise before the test 8. Providing students with in-depth study guides
9. Allowing the students opportunities to improve their
marks