It's easy to start your school or district purchase!
Skip to content

Hacking the 8th Grade STAAR Science Test

Don’t get me started on standardized testing.  I’ll save that for another time.  Every 8th grader in the state of Texas has to take the STAAR science test, so we may as well give them all the tools and advantages possible for them to be successful on the exam.

One of the things we have done the past few years is to show the students how to brain dump on the periodic table and formula sheet once the test begins.  I call this hacking the STAAR test.  The state gives each student a periodic table and a formula chart with lots of blank space on it.  This blank space is the perfect place to brain dump information and use as a resource throughout the test.

Before I show you the video, I want to address those of you who may think this strategy is circumventing real knowledge and understanding.  I totally disagree.  This is a tool and reference guide for students to use during the test and should not replace the learning process.  Students still have to  understand the concepts they are writing about to be able to apply that knowledge on the test.  I cannot think of one real-world situation where resources are not available to you to help solve problems.  I’m simply teaching how to use all of the tools provided (our brains and blank paper) to give us an advantage on the STAAR test.  Also, this does not take the place of a solid STAAR review.

These concepts are NOT the only concepts tested on the STAAR test, but they are some of the most heavily tested items (readiness TEKS).  You can adapt this strategy to fit your students needs, or you can sit back and press play and let us do the heavy lifting for you.

The following videos were created by Kesler Science and the Science Duo.

I would introduce this strategy as early on as possible.  The students will need to practice it many times before feeling comfortable doing it on their own.  I will let them use a ‘master copy’ as a guide the first few times they do it.  Eventually, they should be able to complete the brain dump in about 10-15 minutes on their own.

The real beauty of this strategy is that students are learning the concepts while they are doing the brain dump over and over.  It’s a forced way to get them to practice without them knowing your intention.  This is a powerful strategy.  If it’s used effectively, it will give them a huge advantage on test day.

If you enjoyed the content in this post, I’d appreciate a social media share using the buttons up top.  A thumbs up on the video goes a long way also.  Thanks!

Looking for a compresive review to get your students ready for the 8th grade science STAAR test?  Check out lonestaarlaunch.com

Download Over $100 in FREE Resources
For Middle School Science

Simply create a login below and gain immediate access to a selection of our Kesler Science product line worth $100 - for FREE.  There's a full version of every product type! You'll also join tens of thousands of middle school science teachers who receive timely tips and strategies straight to their inbox.

Yes, I want FREE Demo Lessons!