How to Build an EQAO Study Plan for Maximum Performance in Grade 3
The EQAO (Education Quality and Accountability Office) assessment can feel like a big deal, especially for Grade 3 students taking their first major standardized test. But the good news at EZ-Teach is that, with the right EQAO study plan, preparation can be smooth, low-stress, and even confidence-boosting. Here’s a simple, step-by-step EQAO study plan tailored to Grade 3 learners — designed to help families focus on what matters most: time management, key subjects, and practical test strategies.
1) Step 1: Understand the EQAO Format
2) Step 2: Build a Weekly Study Schedule
3) Step 3: Prioritize Key Skills
4) Step 4: Use Practice Tests Wisely
5) Step 5: Build in Breaks and Downtime
Ready to get started? Click on the links above or contact us for more suggestions and help!
Create your Grade 3 EQAO Study Plan with this free printable planner from Kids Learning For Life.
Grade 3 EQAO Study Plan
1) Step 1: Understand the EQAO Format
Before diving into studying, it’s important to understand what the EQAO covers in Grade 3:
Reading: Understanding written texts, answering multiple-choice and written response questions.
Writing: Grammar, sentence structure, short writing tasks, and longer responses (like a personal narrative or opinion).
Mathematics: Number sense, geometry, measurement, data management, and problem-solving.
Review the test framework to better understand the test, or download sample EQAO questions from the official EQAO website to review with your child. You can also find sample tests in our blog, EQAO Sample Tests for Grd. 3, 6, 9, 10, or purchase a test prep guide here on our site.
2) Step 2: Build a Weekly Study Schedule
Click on the video above and you’ll get a link to the free printable planner for your EQAO Study Plan!
Consistency is more effective than cramming. Aim for 3–4 short study sessions per week, each lasting about 20–30 minutes. Let’s look at an example of what we mean.
Example Weekly Plan
Monday: Reading (20-30 mins)
Tuesday: Math Practice (20-30 mins)
Thursday: Writing - Grammar or Short Response (20-30 mins)
Saturday: Practice Test or Review Game
The goal is to keep sessions light and focused. End on a positive note so your child stays motivated. If you know your child is especially struggling with literacy and numeracy, you might even consider adding a weekly half-hour tutoring session.
3) Step 3: Prioritize Key Skills
Not all topics need equal time. Focus on these high-impact skills:
Reading
Practice reading short stories or non-fiction passages
Ask questions like: "What happened first?" or "Why did the character feel that way?"
Consider resources such as the curriculum on the left that helps train students to read for detail and pick out the main idea.
Writing
Practice clear sentence structure and punctuation
Have your child write a short paragraph about their day or a favorite activity; Use the curriculum on the left to guide you.
Review past EQAO writing prompts together
Math
Use real-life examples: count change, measure objects, or read a calendar
Practice word problems and talk through the steps
Use a curriculum like the Canadian Patterning exercises on the left.
It might take you a bit of time initially to sort out what you need to prioritize, but doing so will maximize your time and ensure you’ve covered the basics. You could also speak with your child’s teacher to ask him or her what topics and practices your child would benefit from the most.
4) Step 4: Use Practice Tests Wisely
Remember not to fatigue your child - break test practice down into chunks and use games when possible!
Practice tests are helpful — but only when used strategically.
Start with short sections instead of full tests to avoid fatigue. For example, the Grade 3 Test Prep Guides are broken into 10 tests, so you could work on 1 per week if you like!
After completing a practice section, review answers together. Make sure to correct work instead of glossing over mistakes.
Use wrong answers as a teaching moment, not a setback.
And, remember not too spend too long at once on one topic as your child is young and has limited attention. Plus, mix in games (like the Jeopardy game featured above!), apps, or printable activities to reinforce concepts without always using formal worksheets.
5) Step 5: Build in Breaks and Downtime
Need some ideas for brain breaks? Check out this video above!
Balance is key. EQAO preparation should not replace play, creative time, or rest. Here's how to maintain balance:
Schedule study time at a consistent time of day (e.g. after a snack, before screen time).
Avoid studying right before bed or when your child is tired.
Include rewards or breaks after focused effort (e.g. 20 minutes of study = 10 minutes of fun activity).
Final Tips for Parents
Be encouraging: Confidence matters as much as content knowledge.
Watch for signs of stress: Keep communication open and positive.
Celebrate small wins: Finishing a writing task or solving a tough math question is worth cheering for.
Don’t forget to try our free Test-Taking Strategies Tips PDF - it can help your child feel less anxious about test-taking in general! By following this plan, you’ll help your child approach EQAO with confidence, skills, and a calm mindset — all while keeping learning fun and manageable.
Manage Your EQAO Study Plan With EZ-Teach
At EZ-Teach, we make it easier for families to stay organized, confident, and focused during EQAO preparation. With our ready-made resources, practice tools, and tutoring support, you can:
Follow a structured study schedule without the guesswork
Access printable and digital practice materials aligned with the EQAO
Get extra help through summer learning support or one-on-one tutoring
Whether you want to reinforce reading skills, boost math confidence, or improve writing structure, EZ-Teach is here to help your Grade 3 student thrive. Contact us for more information or browse our digital curriculum!
