Homeschool Testing:
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However, for a high school student even thinking about college, homeschool testing takes on immense importance.
If you are enrolled in an accredited homeschool program, it will usually provide at least some testing information and suggestions. In addition, local home school support groups will usually help with ideas.
But we parents must be proactive. It's up to us to make sure that our children are ready for college or other post high school education.
Please thoroughly read the following list of suggestions for homeschool testing. Registration is required for the tests so note all the dates and plan ahead. (Links are provided in the text.)
Also, a word of caution...the test administrators are very serious--and they should be--about the rules governing the exams. It is incumbent upon us to pay attention and adhere to them.
Important Note: The homeschool testing schedule and suggestions below were created by Maribeth Chambers, a homeschool Mother of five. She generously gave her permission to share the ideas with you, and I think you will find them very helpful. Thanks so much, Maribeth.
Strategic Preparation Plan for upper grades/home school high school:
- 6th-8th Grades
- 9th Grade:
- 10th Grade:
- 11th Grade:
- 12th Grade:
*Use some sort of "official" testing at least every other year to make sure the student is on grade level. (CAT, Iowa Basics, etc.) Check with your local homeschool support group or an accredited home school program for assistance with this.
*Begin a
literature list,
and accomplishment/job "resume." Consider volunteering as a family.
*If you haven't already, encourage students to begin putting money in a college investment. Minimum deposit is $25. (AM note: Ditto, parents!)
*Expect more of your child in the way of 1) essay tests and 2) developed writing topics (one typed page minimum length). Writing is KEY.
*Take the EXPLORE test in 8th grade.
*Keep accurate records: Prepare daily/weekly grades and make grade cards. Keep all work samples--with grades--in individual bins, folders or notebooks.
*Could begin PSAT (pre-SAT) testing at area high school.
*Could take the PLAN (pre-ACT) test.
*Begin talking about student's interests in line with his vocation.
*Continue volunteering on a regular basis.
*Pray.
*Develop writing skills further. Expect weekly papers of at least 1-2 pages.
*Take PLAN test.
*Could take PSAT for practice.
*View potential colleges online or visit.
*Plan or begin
SAT
and
ACT
test preparation.
Many different books and classes are available. Check with your school district's community education department and with your home school co-op.
Maribeth started her test prep course the 2nd semester using Kaplan and the Princeton Review each Friday for one hour.
Depending on the child (we have five) and time constraints, our family used a variety of methods to prepare...night course at the local college..community ed classes...year long course during the junior year offered by homeschool Mom.
*Could take the ACT in the spring.
*Think about mentors and teachers that may write letters of recommendation for your student.
*Take the PSAT. This year it counts toward National Merit Scholarships!
*Take the SAT and the ACT. These are crucial for scholarships. Practice and retest, if needed.
*Begin college search in earnest. Read catalogues and talk with admission counselors. Some colleges have special visits and programs/early admissions for juniors. Begin scholarship search.
*Continue volunteer work and extra-curricular activities for a well-rounded portfolio.
*Fall: Retake SAT and ACT, if needed.
*Apply to colleges.
*Complete the FAFSA (federal aid form) in January.
*Keep the school schedule rigorous and on a college prep level of difficulty.
*Continue to pray.
Homeschool testing is imperative. With a little time and attention, these "nuisances" can reap huge rewards for our children.
The following links are for your convenience:
High School Electives EXPLORE PLAN PSAT ACT SAT Return Home from Homeschool Testing
