Exam Stress

Exams can be stressful for many students. A teacher’s job is not only to teach, but to also alleviate the exam stress of students so they can best demonstrate what they have learned. Here are some suggestions.

Provide your students with practical information to help them relax in the days before an exam:

• Get sufficient sleep.
• Keep hydrated.
• Eat well-balanced meals.
• Space studying to avoid having to cram.

A major concern of students is that they won’t remember everything. Create fun ways to help students remember information:

• Rhymes
• Games
• Rap songs

Use visualization and relaxation techniques during class time shortly before an exam:

• Play calming music.
• Have students do deep breathing exercises.
• Have students close their eyes and visualize positive things.
• Have students repeat affirmative statements such as “I’m well prepared to take the exam.”