How to Use CBEST Workshops

If you’re planning to take the California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST) to become a substitute teacher in the state, you may need a refresher on reading comprehension, math and essay writing. An effective CBEST test prep regimen may include classes that provide a refresher on basic skills. Use these tips to use CBEST workshops to help improve your score.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Use CBEST workshops that help with substitute teacher certification offered by such groups as the Teacher Preparation Advising Center of California State University, Long Beach, the Sonoma County Office of Education or the Learning Resource Center Writing Programs of California State University, Northridge. Non-college related organizations also offer CBEST test prep, some offering a refund if you don’t pass the exam.

2. Find CBEST workshops that provide diagnostic tests that allow you to practice under test-like conditions. Although the questions aren’t the same, the math questions require the same skills and the essay topics cover the same basic angles each year, for example. (You can also find sample tests on the official CBEST website at CBEST.nesinc.com.)

3. Look for CBEST workshops that focus on one section of the test for concentrated CBEST test prep. Because you’ll be able to re-take one or two sections of the test (rather than the entire exam) if you don’t pass the first time, these section specific classes will help you focus on helpful question comprehension and answer selection strategies.

4. Sign up for substitute teacher certification classes that discuss ways to use test-taking strategies like the process of elimination, solving math equations backwards and ways to find reading comprehension answers quickly in long passages. Knowing how to tackle the 50 reading and 50 math problems, as well as the essays will put you at ease on test day. Find CBEST workshops that also discuss how to prepare mentally for the exam and the basic rules of the test area so you’ll know what you’ll need and what you can and can’t bring with you, for example.

Tips & Warnings

• In addition to paper-based testing, computer-based testing is also available, as well. If you’re interested in this option, use CBEST workshops that discuss strategies for using this medium, particularly since you’ll have to wait 120 days to retake a failed section of the test.

[goodselfme]

on 4/10/2009 Great CBEST workshop info.