Tuesday, September 16, 2008
"> CSET Test Taking Tips and FREE Test Tutoring
CSET Test Taking Tips and FREE Test Tutoring
Here is a partial preview of the CSET essay formula we teach candidates. Use the P.I.E. method to crack the code of the CSET. Stay on task without adding extra jargon that may hurt your score.1.) The P. in P.I.E. stands for proof. Give proof why your statements are correct by quoting someone or cite a fact related to the answer.2.) The I. stands for information. Tell what you know. Even if it’s something you’re not familiar with tell what you do know. (You don’t get points taken away, only added.)
3.) The E. stands for example. Give an example of what you’re talking about to make it concrete. If you come to a question you don’t have a clue about this essay method will keep you on track and can at least earn you a point. A successful essay should include all components. Their order does not matter. If you must leave out one item it should be the Proof. The information and example are the most important components. This is a very basic outline of what the scorers want to see in your essay. The full details and explanation are in the Comprehensive Success System.
We have a quick partial preview of our winning RICA Essay Formula. You need to consistently execute this formula without spending too much time on any one question. The essay questions on the RICA will give you a scenario of a classroom situation. You will need to show you can apply your knowledge. The key to cracking the code of the RICA essay is answer the following questions:The word PASS (P.A.S.) will successfully answer your RICA essay questions. (Believe me, this works.)
1.) P. List the POSITIVES or strengths given a classroom scenario of the essay question.
2.) A. ASSESS the needs of the student(s), write a list of dominant needs.
3.) S. Explain the STRATEGY you will use to address the student’s needs.Number one: list the strengths of the students (e.g. can read some sight words, have an interest in reading).
Number two: write the needs of the students. What reading strategies/ skills are they lacking (e.g. phonics skills on an automatic level to promote fluency and comfort with reading)?
Number three: write one appropriate teaching strategy for teaching the student(s) based on the needs you identified (e.g. create activity centers that provide practice in phonics skills and previously taught generalizations, choral reading).
Use this method to answer essay questions. Remember, one good strategy based on a dominant need of the students will be sufficient. Don’t just say “teach the students S.Q.3R. to promote the reading comprehension of the sixth grade class.” Describe how you would go about teaching S.Q.3R. Show you know what this strategy is and how to apply it. The RICA is heavy on testing your ability to apply knowledge.
http://www.teachingsolutions.org/cset.html
