A Guide to the NYC Private School T&E Assessment

/

A Guide to the NYC Private School T&E Assessment

Navigating the NYC private school admissions process can be daunting, especially when it comes to the T&E (Thinking and Engagement) Assessment. This test is a crucial part of the application process for many prestigious private schools in New York City. But what exactly is the T&E Assessment, which schools use it, and how can you help your child prepare? Let’s dive in.

What is the T&E Assessment?

The T&E Assessment is designed to evaluate a child’s cognitive abilities, critical thinking skills, and overall engagement with learning. It measures how a child processes information, solves problems, and interacts with new concepts. This holistic approach helps schools understand not just what a child knows, but how they think and learn.

Developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the T&E Assessment aims to reduce the burden on families by allowing applicants to take one common test, the results of which can be shared with multiple schools. The assessment includes expressive and receptive language tasks, verbal and non-verbal reasoning exercises, and activities to gauge teachability and problem-solving skills.

Which Schools Use the T&E Assessment?

Several top private schools in NYC use the T&E Assessment as part of their admissions process. Some of these schools include:

  • Horace Mann School

  • Riverdale Country School

  • Collegiate School

  • Trinity School

  • Dalton School

  • Brearley School

This list is not exhaustive, and it's important to check with each school directly for the most up-to-date information on their admissions requirements and the role of the T&E Assessment.

How is the T&E Assessment Administered?

The T&E Assessment is conducted virtually using Zoom. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Set-Up: The child should be seated comfortably with a desktop or laptop computer or a tablet on a flat surface. They will need to wear headphones throughout the assessment to minimize distractions.

During the Assessment: The assessor guides the child through various developmentally appropriate activities. These assessors are trained early childhood professionals. One adult (e.g., parent, guardian) must be present for technological support but should not interfere.

Parental Involvement: The adult is encouraged to engage in another activity, such as watching a video or listening to a podcast, to model behavior and ensure the child focuses on the assessor.

Duration: The assessment can take up to 45 minutes, though it often takes less time.

Preparing for the T&E Assessment

Fostering Critical Thinking: Engage your child in activities that require logical reasoning and problem-solving. Puzzles, brain teasers, and strategy games are great ways to develop these skills.

Encouraging Curiosity: Create an environment where curiosity is encouraged. Ask open-ended questions and explore answers together. Encourage your child to ask questions and seek out information on their own.

Reading and Discussion: Read a variety of books with your child and discuss them. Ask questions about the story, characters, and what they think might happen next. This helps improve comprehension and critical thinking.

Interactive Learning Tools: Utilize educational apps and online resources that promote interactive learning. Many apps are designed to make learning fun while developing important cognitive skills.

Practice Interviews: Some schools include an interview as part of the assessment. Practice simple, friendly conversations with your child to build their confidence and help them articulate their thoughts clearly.

Are There Prep Materials Available?

While there are no official T&E prep materials, various educational resources can help your child get ready. Here are some recommended options:

  • Brain Quest Workbooks: These workbooks cover a range of subjects and help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

  • Puzzle Books: Books filled with age-appropriate puzzles and brain teasers can be both fun and educational.

  • Educational Apps: Apps like Khan Academy Kids, ABCmouse, and PBS Kids offer interactive learning experiences that can help prepare your child.

Additional Tips

Get Comfortable with Technology: Have your child practice wearing headphones and using video conferencing tools like Zoom.

Maintain a Positive Attitude: Encourage your child and make the preparation process fun and stress-free. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and performance.

Schedule Early: Appointments for the T&E Assessment are available from September through December. It’s recommended to schedule early in the season.

The NYC private school T&E Assessment is a significant part of the admissions process for many top schools. By understanding what the assessment entails and how to prepare effectively, you can help your child shine. Encourage critical thinking, engage in interactive learning, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of discovery together.

For more detailed information, always check with the individual schools you’re applying to and consider consulting with educational experts who can provide personalized guidance.