Cps Gifted Program Testing Ace The Exam Prepare Well

Navigating the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Gifted Program admission process can feel overwhelming, but preparation is the key to success. The CPS Gifted Program uses a standardized assessment to identify students with exceptional academic potential. While the test measures cognitive ability and academic readiness, performance can be significantly improved through structured preparation, consistent practice, and emotional support. Understanding the format, knowing what skills are evaluated, and creating a realistic study plan can make all the difference in helping your child perform confidently on test day.

Understanding the CPS Gifted Program Assessment

The CPS Gifted & Talented Program evaluates students in kindergarten through 7th grade using a multi-measure approach. This includes a nationally normed cognitive abilities test—typically the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT) or the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT)—and an academic achievement test such as the Iowa Assessments. These assessments measure reasoning, problem-solving, and subject mastery in areas like math, reading, and language.

The nonverbal component is designed to minimize language and cultural bias, focusing instead on pattern recognition, spatial reasoning, and abstract thinking. This means that even children who are still developing English proficiency can demonstrate their intellectual strengths.

Tip: Familiarize your child with nonverbal questions involving shapes, sequences, and analogies—they form the core of the NNAT.

Core Skills Measured in the Exam

To prepare effectively, parents and educators must understand the specific competencies assessed:

• Nonverbal Reasoning: Identifying patterns, completing matrices, and visualizing spatial transformations.
• Verbal Reasoning: Understanding word relationships, following complex directions, and drawing logical conclusions.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Solving number puzzles, recognizing numerical patterns, and applying basic math logic.
• Reading Comprehension: Interpreting passages, identifying main ideas, and making inferences.
• Mathematical Achievement: Demonstrating grade-level mastery in arithmetic, geometry, and data interpretation.

Success doesn’t come from rote memorization alone. It requires cultivating flexible thinking and comfort with unfamiliar question types. Practice should emphasize strategy over speed during early stages, gradually building both accuracy and confidence.

Step-by-Step Preparation Timeline (8 Weeks Before the Test)

A structured timeline reduces stress and ensures balanced development across all tested domains. Follow this phased approach:

1. Weeks 1–2: Diagnostic & Baseline
   Take a full-length practice test under timed conditions to identify strengths and weaknesses. Use official or high-quality prep materials aligned with NNAT/CogAT formats.
2. Weeks 3–4: Skill Building
   Focus on weak areas. Dedicate 20–30 minutes daily to targeted exercises—nonverbal puzzles one day, verbal analogies the next. Incorporate games like Sudoku, tangrams, or logic riddles to build reasoning playfully.
3. Weeks 5–6: Mixed Practice & Strategy
   Shift to mixed-question sets. Teach time management: skip difficult items and return later. Introduce techniques like process of elimination and pattern tracking.
4. Week 7: Full-Length Simulations
   Complete two to three timed practice exams. Replicate test-day conditions: quiet room, no interruptions, same time of day as the actual test.
5. Week 8: Review & Mental Readiness
   Review incorrect answers, reinforce strategies, and prioritize rest. Avoid cramming. Focus on positive reinforcement and reducing anxiety.

“High-ability students often underperform due to test anxiety or lack of familiarity with format. Consistent exposure to test-like conditions levels the playing field.” — Dr. Lisa Tran, Educational Psychologist and Gifted Education Consultant

Do’s and Don’ts During Preparation

Do’s	Don’ts
Maintain a consistent daily practice routine (15–30 minutes)	Practice for hours at a stretch—this leads to burnout
Use official or reputable prep books (e.g., Bright Kids, TestingMom)	Rely solely on free online quizzes with unclear sources
Encourage growth mindset: “Mistakes help us learn”	Say things like “You have to get into the program” – adds pressure
Simulate real test conditions periodically	Introduce new material the night before the test
Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and physical activity	Allow excessive screen time or sugary snacks before sessions

Tip: Turn learning into a game. For example, create a “Pattern Detective” challenge where your child finds sequences in tiles, clocks, or nature.

Real Example: How Maya Improved Her NNAT Score in 6 Weeks

Maya, a first-grader from Chicago’s North Side, initially scored in the 78th percentile on a diagnostic NNAT practice test. Her parents noticed she struggled with matrix reasoning and became frustrated when patterns weren’t immediately obvious. They began a structured plan: three 20-minute sessions per week using a mix of workbooks and interactive apps. They incorporated puzzle time into weekends, doing jigsaw puzzles and playing shape-matching games.

By week four, Maya started recognizing recurring patterns—rotation, symmetry, and color shifts. Her parents praised effort, not just results. After six weeks, she took another full-length practice test and scored in the 94th percentile. On test day, she remained calm and completed all sections confidently. She was subsequently accepted into her neighborhood’s Regional Gifted Center.

Her success wasn’t due to innate talent alone—it came from consistent, supportive, and strategic preparation.

Essential Checklist for Parents

Stay organized and proactive with this actionable checklist:

• ☐ Obtain the official CPS testing timeline and registration deadlines
• ☐ Secure high-quality prep materials (books, online platforms)
• ☐ Schedule weekly 2–3 practice sessions (15–30 mins each)
• ☐ Administer a baseline practice test
• ☐ Identify weak areas and adjust focus accordingly
• ☐ Conduct at least two full-length simulated exams
• ☐ Visit the test site beforehand (if possible) to reduce anxiety
• ☐ Prepare clothes, snacks, and transportation for test day
• ☐ Ensure your child gets 9–11 hours of sleep the night before
• ☐ Offer encouragement without pressure: “We’re proud of your effort”

Frequently Asked Questions

What score do you need to qualify for the CPS Gifted Program?

Students typically need a combined national percentile rank of 90 or higher across the cognitive and achievement tests. However, final eligibility also considers school-specific cutoffs and seat availability. Some programs may require higher scores based on demand.

Can my child prepare if they’ve never taken a standardized test?

Absolutely. Most young children haven’t. That’s why preparation is so valuable. Exposure to test formats, timing, and question styles builds familiarity and reduces anxiety. Even two to three weeks of focused practice can lead to meaningful improvement.

Are there free resources available for CPS gifted test prep?

Yes. CPS provides sample questions on its website. Additionally, public libraries often carry gifted test prep books. Websites like TestingMom.com offer limited free trials. However, for comprehensive practice, investing in quality materials is recommended.

Final Steps: Building Confidence for Test Day

The goal isn’t just to pass a test—it’s to help your child develop resilience, critical thinking, and a love for learning. The skills built during preparation extend far beyond the exam room. On test day, keep the atmosphere calm and positive. Arrive early, bring water and a light snack, and remind your child that their worth isn’t defined by a single score.

Even if admission isn’t granted on the first attempt, the experience strengthens academic foundations and prepares them for future challenges. Many families use the process as a springboard for long-term enrichment—advanced reading, STEM activities, or critical thinking games.

🚀 Start today. Download a practice test, set a schedule, and take the first step toward unlocking your child’s potential. Share your journey or tips in the comments—your experience could inspire another family on the same path.