Doctors tell us to eat a good breakfast everyday. Students who do not eat breakfast are tired and do not solve problems well. Knowing the correct "BRAIN FOOD" to fuel your brain is a first step to improving your learning ability. So, make sure you eat a healthy breakfast. Include dairy like milk or yogurt, fresh fruit like bananas and oranges, and protein in meat or eggs. You can eat a hard-boiled egg anywhere!
Brain researchers have found that caffeine and nicotine decrease blood flow to the brain. Eliminate coffee, carbonated beverages and cigarettes and you will feel sharper and be able to focus better.
SLEEP is essential to optimal brain functioning. Make sure you get 8 to 9 hours every night. Decreased sleep is associated with mood swings, decreased cognitive ability, irritability and periods of spaciness.
WATER is one of the most important and abundant substances in our body. Under normal conditions, a person should drink about a quart of water per 100 pounds of body weight each day, with that amount doubled or tripled in times of stress (tests)! If you are thirsty, your body is already dehydrated! Carbonated beverages, coffee and tea are not substitutes for water; they actually contribute to dehydration!
When you are given a two minute STRETCH BREAK during the test, take it! Deep breathing, stretches, and marching in place are highly recommended before and during testing to enrich your blood with oxygen.
If you are unable to concentrate or think effectively on a test, if you are easily distracted by noise, uncomfortable temperature or a passerby, or if you have "butterflies in you stomach, an increased heart rate, nausea, sweaty palms or a headache, you may have TEST ANXIETY. It is caused by pressure, past experience and fear of failure.
You can control anxiety. Think positively. For any emotional, frightening thought, come up with a calming response. Remind yourself that you did well on the practice tests; therefore you will do well on this test. Imagine yourself remaining calm and in control. Visualize yourself with the test score you want!
A hearty breakfast and a good night's sleep will help you handle the pressure. Learn about relaxation techniques.
Your teachers have prepared you well for the BST tests you will take. Follow these simple tips and your chances at success become even greater!
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