AIKEN - Elementary and middle school pupils will probably see earlier bed times tonight as families prepare for the Palmetto Achievement Challenge Test.

The state standardized test measures accountability in math, English language arts, science and social studies for pupils in third to eighth grade.

"The best preparation is a good night sleep; in bed by 8 p.m.," said Dr. David Mathis, Aiken County's associate superintendent for administration. "With a good night sleep, the next morning should have as little confusion as possible and as little interruptions as possible so they arrive to school in a calm atmosphere."

Several schools held pep rallies last week to excite pupils about the upcoming test and build esteem for the next two weeks.

A.L. Corbett Middle School Principal Deborah Bass began sending information home to parents weeks ago. The four "R's" were the pupils' guidelines: be receptive, relaxed, ready and rested.

During a pep rally at East Aiken Elementary, pupils were encouraged to count to 10 and skip a question if they didn't know the answer right away - they could always come back later.

Pupils have all day to take the untimed test, but Dr. Mathis said tests usually average about an hour and a half.

Though pupils can take their time during tests, Dr. Mathis said parents can look for signs of testing fatigue throughout the next two weeks.

"A good thing to do is to talk about the test, get their reactions and offer support and encouragement," he said. "That discussion helps the child understand the parent values the importance of what they're doing."

Schools are trying to cut down on stress by offering free breakfast to pupils who arrive before school begins, which means one less thing parents have to worry about on busy mornings.

A free breakfast might also lure pupils to school earlier than usual, which eases teacher anxiety about getting every pupil tested.

"If a student arrives to school late after testing has started, they have to take it during make-up days," Dr. Mathis said.

Having pupils take tests during make-up days means schools run the risk of having pupils not tested, which will hurt the district when test scores come out in the fall.

Testing begins Monday morning and will end May 16.

Reach Julia Sellers at (803) 648-1395, ext. 106 or julia.sellers@augustachronicle.com