Tomorrow begins a week of testing for the Alabama High School Graduation Exam (AHSGE) in Chilton County.

Rising seniors, as well as those who have exited high school but need to complete portions of the exam, should see that they are adequately prepared, says testing coordinator Pam Harris.

One of the most important things to remember is that the AHSGE is not timed, Harris advises.

“You need to take the time you need to take the test,” she said.

“It doesn’t matter if other people are turning in their tests.”

Students should make sure to read entire questions and look for keywords that might help them answer each question, Harris said.

Other test-taking tips for students include:

Bring at least two number two pencils.

When finished, make sure that you have answered all questions.

Only change an answer if you have misread or misinterpreted the question (the first answer that you mark is usually the correct answer).

Double check to see that your last name, date of birth, Social Security number, grade and school name all are correct.

What parents can do to help

Parents can do their part in making sure that their student is adequately prepared come test day.

The parents of students who took the AHSGE in March of this year should have received students’ results in the spring. This informs them of what subject areas their student(s) must retake.

Parents should mark their calendars for test dates and times, and see that their child arrives on time and on the correct day.

They can do other things like seeing that their child gets enough sleep the night before and that they eat a healthy breakfast.

Also, parents should monitor their child to see that he or she reviews the material the day before the test.

Test dates for the AHSGE

Monday, July 7: language

Tuesday, July 8: social studies

Wednesday, July 9: science (old test)

Thursday, July 10: mathematics

Friday, July 11: reading