SOL for Families
SOL Resource Guide for Families
This guide gives you easy ways to help your child at home prepare for the reading, math, science, and history SOLs. You don’t need special supplies or long study time. Just 5–15 minutes a day talking, reading, or practicing together can make a big difference!
How to Use This Guide
- Pick one subject at a time (reading, math, science, or history).
- Use the ideas while doing homework, reading together, and talking during everyday activities (car rides, dinner, etc.).
- Keep it short and simple!
- Ask your child to explain their thinking or tell “how” or “why” they got an answer.
Reading and math tests change based on your child’s answers. This is called Computer Adaptive Testing or CAT. The questions may get easier or harder depending on how your child is doing.
TestNav is the computer program that students use to take SOL tests in Virginia.
Click here to view practice items and how items are asked on the SOL assessment. Students use these sample questions to practice before the real test.
They help your child:
- See what test questions look like
- Practice using the computer tools
- Try different question types (like drag-and-drop or multiple select)
Important to Know: Practice items are not a full test. They do not cover everything your child will need to know.
You don’t have to be a teacher to help your child.
- Talk about learning
- Ask simple questions
- Let your child explain their thinking
That small time together builds big success!
Working together helps your child learn more, feel confident, and do their best!
Testing with Heart: A Family Guide to Supporting Your 3rd–5th Grader
Supporting the "Whole Child" (Home Support)
Focus on the Person, Not the Grade
Prioritize your child's emotional well-being over scores to build confidence and resilience.
TEST Acronym
- T — Talk
- E — Establish
- S — Strategize
- T — Thought
Practice through Conversation
Discuss vocabulary and strategies naturally at home instead of using practice tests.
The Night-Before and Morning-Of Routine
Ensure a full night's sleep, a healthy breakfast, and proper hydration on testing days.
- Full Night's Sleep
- Proper Hydration
- Healthy Breakfast
Grade Level Testing Subjects
- Grade 3: Reading and Mathematics
- Grade 4: Reading, Mathematics, and Social Studies
- Grade 5: Reading, Mathematics, and Science
About the SOL Tests
