Good Words, Bad Words Strategy

In this blog post, we’re going to explore an effective test-taking strategy that will help you quickly identify correct answers and eliminate incorrect ones, especially when dealing with long, scenario-based questions on teacher certification exams. This approach, which we call the "Good Words, Bad Words" strategy, will provide you with key terms to look for in answer choices to improve accuracy and efficiency.

Understanding the Good Words, Bad Words Strategy

If you’re preparing for exams like the Reading, PLT, PPR, or other teacher certification tests, you’ve likely encountered long scenario-based questions. These often include large blocks of text, data charts, or extensive answer choices, which can feel overwhelming. However, by working backward from the answer choices and identifying key "good" and "bad" words, you can streamline your approach and increase your chances of selecting the right answer.

Where Do These Good Words Come From?

Good words are derived from the test specifications published by exam companies. These specifications outline essential standards and competencies expected of teachers, making them a reliable source for identifying correct answer choices. By recognizing these terms, you can make informed decisions without always needing to analyze the entire scenario in-depth.

Good Words to Look For

1. Standards / Standards-Aligned

If an answer choice mentions aligning instruction to state or national standards, it is highly likely to be correct. State exams are designed to ensure that teachers adhere to official guidelines, so answers referencing "standards-aligned instruction" or "following state standards" are typically the best choices.

2. Assessments & Data-Driven

Effective teachers use assessments and student data to guide their instruction. If an answer choice describes a teacher using test scores, student work, or performance data to make instructional decisions, it is likely the correct response. Terms like "data-driven decisions" and "using formative assessments" are strong indicators of a good answer.

3. Critical Thinking

Look for terms that emphasize student engagement in deep learning, such as:

• Evaluative skills

• Metacognition (thinking about thinking)

• Synthesis and creation of new ideas

These align with Bloom’s Taxonomy and demonstrate a focus on rigorous, student-centered learning.

4. Differentiation & Targeted Interventions

Education is about meeting the needs of all learners. If an answer mentions differentiation, scaffolding, or targeted interventions for struggling students or advanced learners, it is often the best choice. These approaches show an understanding of how to support diverse student needs.

5. Explicit, Systematic, and Recursive Instruction

For reading instruction, particularly in phonics, terms like "explicit," "systematic," and "recursive" indicate effective teaching practices. These refer to structured, sequential instruction that ensures students master foundational skills before progressing to more complex concepts.

6. Modeling

Modeling is one of the most powerful instructional strategies. If an answer choice includes the teacher demonstrating a skill before asking students to try it themselves, it is likely correct. Effective modeling provides clear expectations and supports student learning.

Bad Words to Avoid

While good words help identify correct answers, bad words can help you eliminate incorrect choices. If you see these terms, be cautious:

1. Worksheets

While worksheets are used in real classrooms, they are rarely the best answer choice on certification exams, especially when paired with struggling students or engagement. Effective instruction involves active, hands-on learning rather than passive worksheet completion.

2. Homework

While homework can reinforce skills, it is not an appropriate intervention for struggling students. The test makers want to see classroom-based interventions rather than relying on extra work outside of school.

3. Calling Home for Academic Support

Parental involvement is important, but calling home to address academic struggles is not the most effective instructional strategy. On the exam, you should focus on classroom-based interventions rather than relying on external support.

4. Relying on Paraprofessionals or Coaches

While paraprofessionals and instructional coaches play important roles, the test expects you, as the teacher, to be the primary instructional leader. Answer choices that suggest depending on others to differentiate instruction or manage the classroom are typically incorrect.

5. Test-Taking Strategies 

Ironically, although you are taking a standardized test, answer choices that focus on teaching test-taking strategies rather than deep learning and comprehension are usually incorrect. The exam prioritizes instructional methods that build critical thinking over mere test prep.

The "Good Words, Bad Words" strategy is a powerful tool for tackling teacher certification exams. By recognizing the language used in correct and incorrect answer choices, you can confidently navigate even the most complex questions.

Want More Support?

If you're looking for more in-depth strategies and practice questions, check out our full-length study guides and online courses . These resources provide additional practice to help you feel fully prepared for your exam.

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