Ways to review for the Virginia History SOL
Any 4 by 4 teachers out there with their Virgina SOLs coming up?
My first year I literally did not know what an SOL was until February. Since I am originally from Ohio, I had no idea that my students had to take an end of course test to get the credit for the class. Back in 2017 EVERYONE needed to take these tests, but since then VDOE has changed it to only one per subject area, except for English. But hey, just because there isn't as much pressure for your students to pass every SOL, that doesn't mean you have any idea how to help your students review for these tests. So here are a few ideas to help you out:
This is a hidden secret from like 2008. SOL pass is awesome because your students can take a practice test, and get their results in real time. All of the questions were previously used, therefor it shows your students exactly how the questions will be worded. As a history teacher for example, World History I (9th Grade) tends to have questions that are worded much easier than World History II or VA/US History. This website not only has history Practice tests, but every other subject as well!
Online Review Games
I know, it sounds like a simple solution but honestly, they are normally the most effective. Especially since they are so effortless these days. You can just search for your specific SOL on Blooket, Gimkit, Quizlet, Quizziz, or Kahoot, and have a ready made review material. Don't forget your students can even go at their own pace through the homework options of these sites. The more competition the better for high school kids.
Yes, the classic game, but with actual educational knowledge. If you're a world History II teacher like me, I have an entire years' worth of bingo games that go by each unit to help students review. Each of these units comes with 30 unique bingo cards, and call out options for you or a sub if you are out. These are also great for competition amongst the students.
Don't have time to review in class? These review guides are great for students to do at home, They come with fill-in-the-black and drag and drop activities to test their knowledge on each unit. Not only does it have activities, but it also has charts and maps for students to label, along with links to youtube videos if they didn't remember something for that specific unit. Not only that but they are digital so they work seamlessly with Google Docs and LMS!
These worksheets include crossword puzzles, word searches, and one page reviews. This is great if you think a student or two just need to brush up on a few units on their own. If you wanted to give these out after each unit, students can assemble them into a review booklet at the end of the course.
Now, if you have students who refuse to do any work, but at least want to make sure they have the information they need, these are perfect. With no work for the students, these are a great review supplement for students to look over before the test. Every unit is included with charts, maps, and graphics. To download a free resource click this link.
All of these options are bound to reach each student in their own specific learning styles. Good luck on SOLs and may the odds be ever in your favor (or your students')!
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