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Reading Test A will have six passages of 300-750 words each, taken or adapted from college textbooks in several subject areas. The passages will have a total of 36 questions. Each frame is divided into two parts. The top frame allows you to scroll down as you read the passage using the scroll bar to your right. The bottom frame shows the question to be answered.
1) When it is necessary to take a standardized test, there are many ways to reduce the anxiety that you may feel. Begin with a recognition that being anxious is normal and appropriate. These tests can be important to your future, and important happenings make participants nervous. At the same time, being too nervous can interfere with your performance. Find processes to help you relax.
2) If you know that you suffer high anxiety before tests, take particular care with your preparations. Anything that you can do to increase your sense of control over the situation will decrease your anxiety. The more you know about the material being tested, the more likely you can control your anxiety. The more you know about the testing place, the more you can control your anxiety. Being prepared ahead of time with all the knowledge and experience you can bring to the situation is your best way to feel in control.
3) After gaining control of your testing situation, avoid other stressful situations on the days preceding the test. Personal problems not connected with the test can exacerbate your sensitivity to anxiety. Keep your personal life on an even keel to whatever degree that is possible.
4) Most standardized tests provide information about the test coverage and sample questions. It is wise to use study materials to prepare early; cramming immediately before the test usually raises stress levels. Good preparation should assure that items on the test are not a surprise to you. Items may seem hard, but good preparation and sample questions should ensure that you will recognize each type of question. This will have a calming influence. Remember this: The more you know about the situation before you actually take the test, the more comfortable you can be with it.