How to Prepare for Standardized Tests In Math Class Without Test Prep Mode

Testing is around the corner—and teachers are asking: “Do I stop everything and switch into test prep mode?” Many teachers spend weeks reviewing, drilling, and assigning packets. But students don’t remember what was “taught” months ago, review feels like pulling teeth, and anxiety spikes. The firehose approach overwhelms students and often leaves teachers feeling like they have no choice but to cram harder. In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why end-of-year review can overwhelm students and raise anxiety What Jon Orr changed after a decade of test-prep cycles (and why he stopped doing month-long review) How teaching through problem solving builds real math readiness: stamina, strategy use, and resilience How cumulative practice and cumulative assessment reduce the need for cramming Why daily independent work time can lower testing anxiety How formative assessment and progress monitoring help teachers support students without shifting into panic mode What to do if it’s already March: why it’s not too late, and what to start tomorrow Pick one shift you can start now. Keep math instruction steady. Build habits this month that reduce anxiety now—and make next year’s testing season feel like business as usual. Not sure what matters most when designing math improvement plans? Take this assessment and get a free customized report: Math coordinators and leaders – Ready to design your math improvement plan with guidance, support and using structure? Learn how to follow our 4 stage process. Looking to supplement your curriculum with problem-based lessons and units? Make Math Moments Problem Based Lessons & Units Show Notes Page Love the show? Text us your big takeaway! Get a Customized Math Improvement Plan For Your District. Are you district leader for mathematics? Take the 12 minute assessment and you’ll get a free, customized improvement plan to shape and grow the 6 parts of any strong mathematics program. Take the assessment Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode : "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.

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How to Prepare for Standardized Tests In Math Class Without Test Prep Mode is an episode from Making Math Moments That Matter by Kyle Pearce & Jon Orr.

This episode is 21:45 long.

This episode was published on Mar 12, 2026.

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