Yoga helped me concentrate on the test a lot. The one that really helped me concentrate was tree pose.

- Tamira, Grade 3

Teachers Forum| March '10

How to be an ISAT Superstar through Stress Reduction and Positive Self-Concept!

How to be an ISAT Superstar through Stress Reduction and Positive Self-Concept!

As followers of my posts are aware, I often will respond to questions that come from either my Teacher Institute Day sessions or conferences. However this month, I need to recognize an amazing practice that my mother, Principal Violet Tantillo, uses with her students.

Each year, my mother will photocopy a large, blank star on a sheet of 8x10 yellow card stock for each of her students.

Students Write Motivational Messages to Boost Confidence During ISAT Test Taking

The students ‘homework’ the week before ISAT testing begins is to take the star to be decorated by their parents and families. The decorated stars give the families of the students an opportunity to say “I am proud of you!” or “Good luck, Javier” or “Don’t stress, just try your best!” and other motivational messages.

Student's Completed ISAT Star for Test Taking Motivation

Once the stars are turned in, they are posted around the room (or on the back of the seat in front of the student) so that they are visible during test time.

One Student's ISAT Star for Test Taking Motivation

This year, my mother took her “ISAT Superstar” program to the next level. She made two sets of stars for each student. One to be taken home and one for each student to write their own ISAT tip or motivational bit of wisdom to be shared with the class.

Another Student's ISAT Star for Test Taking Motivation

The results were fabulous! Students incorporated their knowledge of yoga and relaxation tools onto the stars. What a great way to remind students to calm down, relax and focus during the stress of high stakes testing!

- Article written by: Carla Tantillo, founder of Mindful Practices

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