When is the FCAT?

The FCAT is scheduled to begin on Monday Feb. 27. 


What concepts and skills does the FCAT test?

In third grade, your child will be tested on math and reading only.   However, students are not just asked to recall facts and memorize information: the FCAT meaures problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well as how well your child understands what s/he reads.  This link explains exactly what reading skills your child is required to master: Click here for more detailed retention information from the state.


How is my child preparing for the FCAT in school?

-through practice tests we take and review together weekly

-using FCAT Blast Off! books which teach and reinforce reading strategies that are assessed on the FCAT

-during small group instruction, in which children practice reading texts at their own reading level

-through social studies and science connections (i.e., finding the author's purpose and main idea of texts in those subject areas)

-with Fast Track to FCAT math practice booklets: students complete sample problems and review them as a class

-completing 'FCAT Math Dailies' every morning: problems solved together with the teacher writing on the overhead projector and students recording on paper
-by learning test taking tips and practicing test-taking strategies


How can I help prepare my child at home?

It is essential for students to study at home, read and be read to, and complete homework nightly, preferably with adult supervision.  In addition, to help your child prepare for the FCAT, you can:

1. Read Everyday ideas for developing reading comprehension and FCAT skills (from the state dept. of education).  Click on the concepts that your child struggles the most with.

2.  Check your child’s FCAT practice tests that are kept in the FCAT section of your child's BEE Book to get an idea about your child’s strengths and weaknesses.

3.  Carefully review the FCAT practice pages your child takes home for homework (about once a week or so).   Familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions asked so you can generate similar questions to ask your child when you read together.
 

3.  ****Encourage your child to read non-fiction (true) texts (including menus, maps, charts, instruction manuals, newspapers, etc.).  These reading materials comprise 40% of FCAT passages in third grade and 80% by the time students take the test in high school.   As adults, most of our reading is non-fiction and for a purpose, as opposed to novels for entertainment, so the FCAT has been adapted to reflect the skills needed in real life.*****

4.  Ask comprehension questions after your child reads.  To read examples of questions to ask, click here.

5.  Have your child work on FCAT Explorer and Harcourtschool websites for reguarly.  Both programs are FUN!  See the Student Page for directions and links.

Frequently-Asked FCAT Questions Answered by the State Dept. of Education