Testing anyone?

Testing season is once again upon us. As such, I am working on gearing up my middle school students (8th in particular) to get ready to take the Science MCAII Test. The Science MVA is a very interesting test. I need to give credit to the makers of the test for making use of technology and providing a more authentic approach to testing. On the other hand, the test has shown to be horrendous for ELL students. As a matter of fact, only 4% of the state's ELL students met the standards on this MCA test. I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions beyond going to the computer lab to help students be successful on this test. So far, all I have planned is to practice taking different scenario tests using the following test taking strategies:
1. PREVIEW
a. Top section
b. Visuals- what type? Animation? Graphs?
c. Question(s)- what type of question is it? Multiple choice? Long answer? Short answer? Graphing? Click and move?
d. Answers- Are answer options given to you? Where are they? What format are they in?
2. LISTEN AND OBSERVE
a. Click on the Play button. Listen carefully and watch the video if one is provided. This part will help you to understand the setting of the question(s).
3. READ CAREFULLY
a. Top section- highlight important phrases/words
b. Question- Highlight important phrases or words
- What is the question really asking?
- What are the directions?
c. Additional information- graphs? Pictures? Tables? What are their titles, what are the labels? What is it telling you?
4. ANSWER QUESTION
a. Multiple choice- read all answers, eliminate wrong answers, avoid always and never answers
b. Click and move- make sure all spots get filled.
c. Constructed Response- Use full sentences. Be as complete, specific and clear as possible.
5. CHECK YOUR ANSWERS.
a. You are allowed to move forward and backwards through each scenario.
b. Reread each question and your answers for any mistakes. If you do not notice any obvious mistakes, stick with your first answer.