TESTING

Why? FHCA requires all off-campus students, grades 2 and up, to take an annual standardized achievement test, administered by FaithHeritage. We use the newest 10th edition Stanford Achievement Test. It is a comparative test used to determine each students progress in relationship to the progress of other students across the nation, at approximately the same age and grade level. It is not a test used to measure mastery of specific material. It is only a tool to aid teachers in determining strengths and weaknesses of the students, the curriculum, and teaching methods. An accurate testing should verify what a teacher has already observed. The testing is also a part of the accountability built into the FHCA OffCampus Program. No student can remain in the program without annual testing. When and Where? FHCA testing is conducted during late March and April. Each testing session lasts for two or three mornings. Various dates and locations will be made available for the testing. In addition to testing at the FaithHeritage campus, 4272 Duncan Road, Millington (dates on School Calendar), testing is usually available in Cordova and Collierville. These choices will be announced by email and on the school website after the first of the year, and opportunity will be given for each off-campus family to contact the Off-Campus Office to sign up for the preferred date and location, as available. What to Bring? Each student should bring a few sharpened #2 pencils, a few sheets of blank paper, a ruler marked with both inches and centimeters, and a drink and simple snack for break time. Grade 7-11 students should also bring a basic calculator. Students under grade 7 cannot use a calculator during testing How to Dress? Off-campus students do not have to wear the specific clothing of FHCA dress code during testing, but all students are expected to dress in accordance with the same standards of modesty and good taste as reflected in the dress code. Pants/shorts/skirts/dresses must cover the knees, and shirts tucked in with no bare skin exposed at the waist. Please dont let your students clothing cause everyone else to have to start wearing uniforms in the future!!! If in doubt, dont wear it! How to Prepare? Prepare each student with a good nights rest and breakfast beforehand. Encourage students to answer to the best of their ability, and to make good guesses when necessary. Students are not expected to know everything on this type of test, but to do their best! For younger students, practice filling in the answer bubbles. Let students know that they must not look at anyone elses test. Practice tests are available through various educational supply companies. Be calm and positive toward the testing experience and your children will probably do the same. Volunteer to serve as a proctor (parent testing supervisor) to gain valuable insight into the testing experience! Special Students? Students who have been diagnosed with a specific learning disability are allowed to be tested privately, at the parents own arrangement and expense. The testing should not be done by a family member or relative. There must be documentation in the students file of the disability. Some private testing can be arranged through FHCA at extra cost. Special Testing MUST be arranged in advance. College Entrance Tests? Students in grades 10 and 11 are encouraged to take the PSAT in October at the FHCA campus. Its a good practice for the SAT, and the qualifying test for National Merit Scholarships in 11th grade. Sign up by mid-September 1; cost is $15.00. This particular test is only given once a year. Any student may take the ACT or SAT at any time, but should consider taking one at least by the end of 11th grade. Off-campus students in 12th grade must take the ACT or SAT in order to graduate. FHCA does not give these tests, but they are administered at many schools in this area. Registration packets and practice materials for ACT and SAT are available from the Off-Campus Office, or on-line: ACT, www.act.org; SAT, www.collegeboard.com. The FHCA school code for these tests is 431-551. Important: Do NOT sign up for these tests with the home school code. You can lose scholarships by this mistake!!! Duke University Talent Identification Program 7th grade students are eligible who scored at 95th percentile or higher on their 5th or 6th grade achievement test. If your student qualifies and you are interested in more information, contact the Off-Campus Office by October 1. FHCA does not endorse or specifically recommend this program.