5.8. Eliminate wrong answers in multiple choice
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand the importance of effective test-taking skills in the CMA field.
- Identify and apply strategies to eliminate wrong answers in multiple-choice questions.
- Practice eliminating incorrect answers through group and individual activities.
- Reflect on their test-taking experience and identify areas for improvement.
- Identify common strategies for eliminating incorrect answers on multiple-choice tests.
- Apply elimination techniques to sample CMA test questions.
- Reflect on personal test-taking strengths and areas for growth.
Part 1: Warm-Up Discussion
Exploring Test-Taking Challenges
Discuss the following questions as a group:
- How do you feel about taking multiple-choice tests?
- What challenges do you face when answering multiple-choice questions?
- Write down one common difficulty mentioned during the discussion:
Part 2: Introduction to Test-Taking Strategies
Learning Elimination Strategies
Review the strategies below for eliminating wrong answers in multiple-choice tests.
Test-Taking Strategies:
| Strategy | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Read the Question Carefully | Understand what the question is asking before looking at the options. | Question: What is the normal range for adult blood pressure? |
| Look for Keywords | Identify important words in the question that guide your answer. | Keyword: “Normal range” |
| Eliminate Obvious Wrong Answers | Cross out options that are clearly incorrect. | Options: 90/50 (too low), 200/110 (too high) |
| Consider the Context | Use your knowledge to eliminate answers that don’t make sense. | Context: Blood pressure ranges for adults |
| Watch for Qualifiers | Be cautious of extreme words like “always” or “never,” which are often incorrect. | Option: “Blood pressure is always 120/80” (incorrect because it varies). |
Write down one strategy you think will be the most helpful for you:
Part 3: Group Practice – Eliminating Wrong Answers
Working Through Sample Questions
In your assigned group, use the strategies above to answer the following sample multiple-choice questions. Use the template below.
Sample Questions:
- What is the primary function of red blood cells?
A. To fight infections B. To transport oxygen
C. To produce antibodies D. To regulate blood pressure - Which of the following is NOT a vital sign?
A. Blood pressure B. Heart rate
C. Respiratory rate D. Height - What should a CMA do if a patient experiences dizziness during a procedure?
A. Ignore the patient’s complaint B. Offer the patient water and monitor their symptoms
C. Ask the patient to stand up quickly D. Continue the procedure without addressing the issue
Group Elimination Worksheet:
| Question | Eliminated Answers | Reasoning | Final Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Question 1: | 1. ____________________ | ||
| 2. ____________________ | |||
| Question 2: | 1. ____________________ | ||
| 2. ____________________ | |||
| Question 3: | 1. ____________________ | ||
| 2. ____________________ |
For each question, discuss and record:
- Which answers can be eliminated?
- What is the reasoning behind each elimination?
- What is the most likely correct answer?
Discussion Questions for Groups:
- Which strategies did you use to eliminate wrong answers?
- Why did you eliminate the incorrect options?
After 15 minutes, share your answers and reasoning with the class.
Part 4: Individual Practice – Multiple-Choice Test
Applying Elimination Strategies
Complete the practice test below using the strategies discussed. Set a timer for 20 minutes.
Practice Test Questions:
- What is the normal body temperature for an adult?
A. 95°F B. 98.6°F
C. 101°F D. 104°F - Which of these is an example of non-verbal communication?
A. Speaking with a patient B. Writing an email
C. Making eye contact D. Calling a physician - What is the primary goal of patient education?
A. To ensure patients follow orders without question
B. To help patients understand their health and treatment options
C. To minimize communication with patients
D. To reduce medical costs for the clinic - Which of the following is NOT a sterile technique?
A. Wearing gloves B. Washing hands
Practice Test Elimination Tracker:
| Question Number | Eliminated Answers | Reasoning | Final Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | |||
| 2 | |||
| 3 | |||
As you work, write down your thought process for eliminating answers.
Part 5: Reflection and Discussion
Strategy Reflection
Reflect on your test-taking experience and answer the following questions:
- Which elimination strategy did you find most helpful?
- Did you feel more confident answering the questions? Why or why not?
- What areas do you still want to improve?
- Share your reflections with a partner or the class.
