This engaging, student centered and immersive approach mirrors the natural way that children acquired their primary language. For example, this is the same approach used by nationally recognized organizations such as the San Francisco Giants in the teaching of English to their spanish speaking players. 

Currently in our Spanish program this methodology can be seen in both the lower school and middle school classrooms with activities such as cartoon strip story writing, picture sequencing, group story creation incorporating total physical response (TPR) while using appropriate verb conjugation and topic-specific vocabulary. We continue to use this effective technique of natural language acquisition into middle school as a bridge to more elevated age appropriate content. 

Students will be taking the test online using their Chromebooks. Ms. Kohrs is spending time with each grade this week, so students will have the opportunity to explore the online test portal and practice questions in advance. I will be meeting with each grade during Health & Wellness lab on Friday to share some tips and strategies for test success with students. We will learn some basic relaxation and focus techniques that can help students get centered before a test.

Sea Crest utilizes the CTP-4 tests as a diagnostic tool to analyze programmatic strengths and needs, guide instruction, measure long-term student growth, and provide your child with practice and experience in taking similar reasoning/achievement style tests (such as the HSPT, ISEE, SSAT, PSAT and SAT). 

The individual data collected is analyzed and compared to student performance in class, then used to help guide learning goals and identify areas of possible aptitude. It is important to remember that this test represents only one way to measure student knowledge and ability. It should be viewed as only a small part of your child's broader academic profile.

• Ensure your child gets plenty of sleep each night.
• Ensure he or she eats a healthy, protein-rich breakfast, and pack a robust snack, and lunch to promote focus and stamina. 
• Encourage your child to bring a bottle of water to testing.
• Have your child bring an independent reading book with them to their testing room.
• Avoid emotional conflicts before school by keeping the morning routine calm.
• Be encouraging, but avoid placing any unnecessary stress or pressure on your child. Teachers will be asking students to simply try and do their best, and we encourage families to do the same.
• Offer plenty of opportunities for your child to run, play, and decompress each evening.