Testing, Testing, Breathe 1-2-3
Gifted and high achieving students often experience test anxiety. It is not uncommon for teachers and parents to ask how to help their Gifted student get through testing. Here are 5 practical tips for supporting healthy test taking experiences that can help reduce some of the stress:
Develop Effective Study Strategies: Gifted students may feel overwhelmed by the volume of material or the complexity of the concepts they need to learn. Breaking down study material into manageable chunks, using techniques like mind maps or creating study guides, can help them organize information effectively. Additionally, practicing active recall and spaced repetition techniques can enhance memory retention and reduce anxiety about forgetting important details during the test.
Set Realistic Expectations: Gifted students are often under higher levels of pressure achieve perfection or excel beyond what is realistically achievable. It’s important to set realistic goals for testing outcomes and to focus on progress rather than absolute performance. Remind your child or student that it's okay to make mistakes and that learning from setbacks is an integral part of the educational journey. Model that statement by celebrating effort rather than scores.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Teach gifted students relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization techniques. These techniques can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety such as rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing, allowing them to approach tests with a calmer mindset.
Seek Support and Guidance: Encourage gifted students to reach out to teachers, counselors, or peers for support. Knowing that they have a supportive network of individuals who understand their challenges can provide reassurance and alleviate feelings of isolation or inadequacy. Additionally, seeking guidance on study strategies or test-taking strategies from teachers or academic advisors can help them feel more prepared and confident.
Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle: Gifted students may be prone to overcommitting themselves to academic pursuits, leading to burnout and heightened anxiety. Encourage them to maintain a balanced lifestyle by prioritizing self-care activities such as exercise, hobbies, socializing with friends, and sufficient sleep. A healthy balance between academic responsibilities and leisure activities can help alleviate stress and foster overall well-being.
