How to Prepare for the SBAC Math Test?

Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) test assesses student mastery of the Common Core State Standards.

The SBAC is a computer adaptive test. It means that there is a set of test questions in a variety of question types that adjust to each student based on the student’s answers to previous questions.

This section includes a range of item types, such as selecting several correct responses for one item, typing out a response, fill‐in, short answers/tables, graphing, dragging, dropping, etc.

On computer-adaptive tests, if the correct answer is chosen, the next question will be harder. If the answer given is incorrect, the next question will be easier. This also means that once an answer is selected on the computer it cannot be changed.

How to Study for the SBAC Math Test?

If you want to take the SBAC test and you are especially worried about the math part of the test, we tell you there is no need to worry.

By knowing the simple tips, you can both control stress and pass the test well. Here we guide you step by step to prepare for the SBAC Math Test.

The Absolute Best Book to Ace the SBAC Grade 6 Math Test

1. Choose your study program

There are many prestigious SBAC books and study guides that can help your students prepare for the test.

Most major test preparation companies have some offerings for the SBAC, and the short-listing of the best book ends up being a puzzling phenomenon.

There are also many online SBAC courses.

If your student just started preparing for the SBAC test and you need a perfect SBAC prep book, then you can use one of the following prep books:

If you just need an SBAC workbook to help your students review the math topics on the test and measure their exam readiness, then try:

“SBAC Exercise Book for grade 3: Student Workbook and Two Realistic SBAC Tests”
“SBAC Exercise Book for grade 4: Student Workbook and Two Realistic SBAC Tests”
“SBAC Exercise Book for grade 5: Student Workbook and Two Realistic SBAC Tests”
“SBAC Exercise Book for grade 6: Student Workbook and Two Realistic SBAC Tests”
“SBAC Exercise Book for grade 7: Student Workbook and Two Realistic SBAC Tests”
“SBAC Exercise Book for grade 8: Student Workbook and Two Realistic SBAC Tests”

You can also use our FREE SBAC worksheets:

• Grade 3 Mathematics Worksheets

• Grade 4 Mathematics Worksheets

• Grade 5 Mathematics Worksheets

• Grade 6 Mathematics Worksheets

• Grade 7 Mathematics Worksheets

• Grade 8 Mathematics Worksheets

Have a look at our FREE Math Worksheets for grades 3 to 8 to assess your students’ knowledge of Mathematics, find their weak areas, and help them learn from their mistakes.

2. Think of math positively

As long as you have a negative outlook on math, you cannot learn math well.

When you are learning math, do not try to get rid of the exercises as soon as possible, and do not think about it as a burden on you.

If you want to be successful in the test, you need to change your outlook on math. From today, try to look at math as an interesting topic that is easy to learn.

3. Make the concepts clear

Have you ever wondered which math concepts are easier for you, which ones are basic, and which are advanced?

If you have done this, you have taken an important step. If not, it is better to start now.

This question will give you an idea of where to start. You may think that it’s not so important to know where to start studying math.

If you study advanced concepts without mastering the basics, you will be wasting your time and you will be confused and bored.

4. Practice daily

Another important step that both reduces your stress and boosts your confidence is studying math daily. Having a daily study schedule and sticking to it is the key to success on an important test like the SBAC.

If you do not know how to set up a study program, get help from an academic advisor.

Start with a small amount of study time per day and gradually increase this time. This way you will be more successful in the test.

5. Find the best way to learn

You may use the self-study method to prepare for the SBAC math test, but it is good to know that there are other suitable methods.

You can use prep books or take prep courses.

You can also get help from a good tutor or use books that will guide you like a good tutor.

Here is a complete list of books that can help you prepare for the SBAC Math Test.

6. Memorize the formula well

You will not be given a formula sheet in the SBAC Math Test. This means that you have to memorize important formulas.

Of course, there is no need to worry. The formulas used in the SBAC test are not difficult and you can remember them.

You already know most of these formulas and their application.

Keep reviewing until test day so you can remember them quickly on test day. Reviewing is also useful for you because it speeds up your response during the test.

7. Participate in simulated tests

Simulated tests are very important and necessary to get acquainted with the main test. You must take these tests after learning the basics of math, which can be written or online.

Note that the simulated test conditions must be the same as the original SBAC test.

Check test results to identify your weaknesses and once you know the weaknesses, fix them.

Don’t forget time management during simulated tests, many students run out of time on the main test day.

8. Take the SBAC Math test

Since the SBAC test is a computer-adaptive test, you must be ready for the test at least 30 minutes earlier.

You must have an ID card with you. To take the test, you will place it on a computer.

Remember that you cannot eat, or drink during the test.

Also, you cannot use your cell phone during the test.

You should leave all your items at home or in another safe place as you are not allowed to take them to the test room.

Depending on your grade, the SBAC test may take hours.

Students are allowed to take breaks during the test.

Since several sections in the SBAC can take an hour or more, you need to be prepared to sit at a computer or device for a long time.

You need to be constantly aware of time but do not worry about time. Remember that worrying about time may distract you.

If you do not know the answer to the question, make the best possible guess.

If you answer correctly, the next question will be more difficult. If the answer is incorrect, the next question will be easier.

Be careful in answering because once the answer is selected on the computer, it cannot be changed.

The Practice You Need to Ace the SBAC Math Test

SBAC FAQs:

Here are some common questions about the SBAC test:

How do I prepare for the SBAC test?

Study the test concepts carefully. Try to participate more in the practice tests and simulate the test conditions for yourself.

Do colleges look at the SBAC?

Part of the scores is used for placement into college-level English and math classes, but not for the admissions process.

What is the purpose of the Smarter Balanced test?

It provides better information for teachers about student progress.

How long does the SBAC test take?

It depends on the student’s grade and takes about 7-8 hours.

How do you interpret SBAC scores?

The scaled score, which is the student’s overall numerical score, shows the student’s current level of success as well as measures his or her growth over time. Scaled scores are measured on a continuous scale of approximately 2,000 to 3,000.

Is the SBAC test mandatory?

Here is nothing in state law making tests mandatory.

Looking for the best resources to help you or your student succeed on the SBAC test?

The Best Books to Ace the SBAC Test