How to Teach ESL Students How to Deal With Test Anxiety

Test anxiety is a common reality for all students. However, ESL students have to deal with the anxiety of taking a test while under the duress of learning a second language. Teaching test-taking tips will boost their confidence and help them deal more effectively with language-learning skills. You can help your ESL students overcome test anxiety using reflection techniques and practice sessions so they will be prepared by the time the real test comes.

Instructions

1. Teach test-taking skills as part of good reading skills. Such test-taking tips include reading instructions carefully, skimming and scanning for specific information.

2. Teaching good organizational skills. These are essential to success on any test. Teach students how to time their performance using a stopwatch, and encourage them to move on, especially during difficult parts.

3. Encourage students to reflect on their performance before and after using the strategies. Ask them if their confidence and performance improved after using the strategies.

4. Encourage students to reflect on their performance in a test-taking journal or during the last 10 minutes of a lesson. By writing their observations, they can build their awareness on areas they still need to improve.

5. Provide short practice runs a few days before the test using similar test practice questions to help raise your students' confidence.

Tips & Warnings

• Provide cues written on flashcards on the day of the test. Allow students to look at them as often as needed.