test anxiety
DESCRIPTION
TRANSCRIPT
WHAT IS TEST ANXIETY?A condition characterized by persistent anxiety in a testing situation that is severe enough to seriously interfere with performance. A.K.A. Brain Freeze
FOUR MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF TEST ANXIETY
Physical
Emotional
Behavioral
Cognitive
PHYSICAL
Rapid HeartbeatDry MouthSweating
(change in body temperature)
Stomach AcheDizzinessDesire to urinateLow test scores
even after over-preparation
Headaches
EMOTIONAL
Excessive feeling of fearDisappointmentsAngerDepressionUncontrollable crying or laughingFeeling of helplessness
COGNITIVE
Racing thoughtsGoing blankDifficulties concentratingNegative self talkFeeling of dreadComparing yourself to othersDifficulties organizing your thoughts
BEHAVIORAL
FidgetingPacingSubstance abuseAvoidance
WHY IS THERE ANXIETY?
Expectations too highUnexpected low
performanceOverly critical
evaluationUnorthodox
responsesLow self esteem
BATTLING THE BEAST
How do I deal with Test Anxiety?
HOW TO REDUCE TEST ANXIETY
PreparationKeep a positive attitude (Don’t put all
your eggs in one basket)Practice relaxation techniquesLearn good test taking skills
COPING STRATEGIES
Be healthy
Be prepared Practice…practice…
Practice the performance
COPING STRATEGIES CONT.
Regulate your arousal level Deep breathingProgressive muscle relaxationReduce distractionRituals
CONTROL THE FEAR
Positive self-talkOn-task self –talkGaining perspective
PULL IT ALL TOGETHER
Organize and order informationCreate Outlines Learn in a particular orderMake intentional associations
BUILD A HOUSE OF THOUGHT . . . . .
Foundation - Learn general concepts firstFrame - Fill in major details Interior - Add in minor detailsCheck for defects – Review your work
KNOW YOUR LEARNING STYLE
Visual Learning – must have visual presentation of the information
Kinesthetic Learning – must be able to move around while learning
Audio Learning – must hear information presented
CALM DOWN
Relax!
Relax!!
Relax!!!