I think most students feel a little uneasy about taking tests because it can seem as if all of their knowledge is judged without being able to fully display their knowledge. However some students really grasp the information and even make great grades but aren't good "test" takers. However I think by calling it an an assesment or evaluation may help take the negative or fearful connotation associated with the word test.
I agree that most students are nervous about taking an admissions test. I feel that this is only normal because these may not accurately show a student's knowledge due to test anxiety. I think that in order to ease a student's mind, it is useful to tell them that this test is simply an evaluation. This word seems to cause less anxiety. Because of this, I feel that this will help the students do better on the test because they will not be as anxious. Providing students with positive vibes is essential for their success as well. Encouraging them will help to ease their stress and will ultimately lead to better results on the test.
