Let's Mock Testing

Last week the library was shut for 3 mornings for mock testing.  This week the library is shut for 2 mornings for mock testing.  Not real testing, mock testing.

Let's mock testing then.  Here goes:

1.  What is the best way to prepare students for a test?

a. Mock testing and lots of it
b. Teaching the material in an engaging way
c. Encouraging students to reading and pursue their own interests, as students can do in the library

2.  What is the best way to encourage a love of learning?

a. Mock testing and lots of it
b. Teaching the material in an engaging way
c. Encouraging students to reading and pursue their own interests, as students can do in the library

3.  What is the best way to improve students' language skills?

a. Mock testing and lots of it
b. Teaching the material in an engaging way
c. Encouraging students to reading and pursue their own interests, as students can do in the library

4.  What is the best way to measure student progress in the elementary years?

a. Through tests written and graded by people who don't know the students
b. Through a portfolio of work
c. Through a test written by the teacher who taught the material
d. B & C

5.  What is the best way to teach elementary school students?

a. Work backwards by preparing for a test written by other people
b. Teach the material in an engaging way, allowing for the occasional tangent dictated by the students' interests

6.  What is the best homework for elementary school students?

a. None
b. Some review
c. Projects that can only be done with parental help
d. Projects that can be done alone
e. Reading
f. Worksheets with the words "Test Prep" plastered all over them.

In case it's not clear, I object to BOTH the mock testing and the fact that any of it takes place in the school library, thereby depriving classes of their library period.  (Students who require special accommodations, such as extra time, are tested in the library.)  The library is also used for nearly every meeting or event that takes place in the building.  Yes, our school is in Manhattan, and yes, it's only 3 stories, and yes, we have limited space, but is there really no other room that can be used?  No one would dream of using the art room or the music room.  Why not?