Midterms are considered to be one of the most stressful times of the year for high school students. They can be even more nerve-wracking for freshmen, who are new to the exam experience. Fear not, freshmen, WSPN is here to answer your questions and help you survive midterms.

Are they like MCAS?
There are similarities between midterms and MCAS, because like MCAS, midterms contain a variety of multiple choice, open response, short answer and/or essay questions depending on the subject and teacher. However, MCAS is a standardized test that is mandated by the state of Massachusetts while midterms are a test written by your teacher.

How should I study?
The best way to study is to begin 1-2 weeks before the test. Do not wait until the night before to cram. Procrastination is a bad habit that will not benefit your grades. The first step is to organize all of your notes by unit. You then can begin reviewing through everything learned this semester. A good way to study is by using resources like Quizlet, doing extra problems in your textbooks and seeing your teacher if you need help. Make sure not to study for more than two hours at a time because you will become unproductive; to break up the time, get up to stretch and have a snack to maintain energy.

How much will midterms affect my final grade?
Midterms are worth 10% of your final grade. Finals are also worth 10% and grades from each term are worth 20%.

“I’m so stressed out! What should I do?”
When you’re feeling weighed down by studying, a simple way to lift your spirits is by eating healthy and exercising, so you have plenty of energy. Also, you can relax by listening to calm music or hanging out with friends to get your mind off of the exams. Take a deep breath, it’ll be okay.

How long is each exam?
Each exam is written to take an hour and a half. If you finish taking your exam before that time ends, you must stay in the room. Once that time is up you may leave the room. If you need more time to finish, you have up to another half an hour. After you finish your exams for the day, you can leave.  One of the benefits of midterms is that you can go home earlier than during regular school.

Where do I go to take the exam?
A few days before midterms, a list will be posted stating the classroom number and proctor for every class (it distinguishes your class by teacher, subject and period number). Report to that classroom for the exam. Make sure to show up 15 minutes before the exam is scheduled to begin. Although the test will be proctored by a teacher who doesn’t know the subject, your teacher will make his/her way through your the class a couple times to answer any questions you have.

What days are my midterms on?
The schedule for midterms looks like this (If you take any electives that give midterms, they will be given on either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Check the posted list or ask your teacher.):
Tuesday, 1/24: Social Studies and French
Wednesday, 1/25: English and Spanish
Thursday, 1/26: Math and Latin
Friday, 1/27: Science