Why Mock Testing – We’re big believers in mock testing. For the past few years, we’ve operated our own mock testing classroom in Brooklyn, where students come to build test endurance, overcome test-day obstacles, and prove their mettle in a simulated setting. Our mock exam service is about test preparedness. It provides us with valuable feedback about how a student tests, and is something we rely on throughout a student’s prep schedule for insights into fine tuning.
Our Concerns About At-Home Testing – Traditionally, we have been skeptical of at-home testing for a few reasons: 1. home is a safe environment–far more comfortable than the unfamiliar classrooms where standardized tests are proctored. 2. home is full of distractions, so it’s difficult to achieve a true simulated test experience. Now that most of us are–for the time being at least–cooped up at home, however, we must reconsider the mock test experience.
Adapting Mock Testing For Our New Normal – It’s possible that our mock exams will be impacted for the rest of the spring. As a result, we are moving our mock testing program to a virtual format that will–hopefully–address our concerns. At-home mock test-takers will log into Zoom on Sunday morning and prepare to take a test (that we have provided either by email or regular mail). Our proctor will give directions, time test-takers, and ensure a scholarly environment online.
It’s not ideal to have students testing at home, but it is a way for them to maintain some structure in their prep schedules. All this to say, if you do want your child to take a mock exam this spring, I want you to know that May and June dates will not be cancelled. In the event that in-person services have not resumed, we will simply conduct these mock test dates online.
