by admin | Apr 7, 2024 | Genel
PSAT, ACT, and SAT Planning for High School Juniors
High school juniors in the United States have a very interesting year of testing options ahead of them. There are a total of four major tests that students will have the opportunity to take: the Digital PSAT, the Paper SAT, the ACT, and the Digital SAT. Who should focus on which of these different types of tests?
Digital PSAT: Administered in the month of October through a student’s high school. Students who are trying to earn National Merit recognition should prepare for this exam. National Merit recognition generally applies to students who score in the 95th percentile or above, and National Merit Scholarships usually go to students who score above the 99th percentile. For students who do not think that a National Merit award is in reach, taking the Digital PSAT is still an excellent way to try the adaptive, digital format they will find on the Digital SAT. Scores for the Digital PSAT will be back in November, so students will have plenty of time to review their PSAT results to prepare for the Digital SAT in the spring.
Paper SAT: Administered in August, October, November, and December of 2023. After these administrations, the current paper SAT will be retired and replaced with a Digital SAT. For students who want to take advantage of the expansive body of existing practice tests and review books, taking the paper SAT before it goes away is a good idea. Results from the paper SAT will still be fully utilized by colleges, so students would have nothing to lose by giving the paper SAT a try before they no longer have the opportunity to do so.
ACT: Administered throughout 2023-2024. In general, students who are faster test takers like the ACT. This is a good test to take if you have taken through Algebra 2 and a bit of pre-calculus. The ACT covers more math material than the Digital SAT: logarithms, matrices, hyperbolas/ellipses, and combinations/permutations. It also has a broader array of grammar concepts than does the Digital SAT: wordiness, idioms, diction, and sentence placement. Fortunately, students who want to take the ACT can use many excellent books and practice tests to prepare for this well-established test.
Digital SAT: Administered in the United States beginning in March, 2024 and continuing thereafter. The Digital SAT will be offered on national test dates, and many schools will offer it during the school day given the relatively short amount of time that taking the Digital SAT requires. Students will have their Digital PSAT results back in November of 2023 so they can evaluate whether the Digital SAT is a good fit for them. There is a great deal of overlap in the content between the ACT and Digital SAT, so if students wish to switch from one test to the other, it should be fairly seamless.
by admin | Apr 6, 2024 | Genel
Here’s an extensive overview of the Digital SAT exam, considering that you’ll be taking it in 6 months and currently have no knowledge about it:
Overview
The Digital SAT is a college admissions test that assesses your readiness for college and is a key component of your college application. It is designed to test the skills and knowledge that are most important for success in college and career.
Format
Modality: The exam is taken on a computer or tablet.
Sections: It consists of two main sections – Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math.
Duration: The total testing time is approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes, not including breaks.
Sections Breakdown
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW):
Reading Test: This section includes passages from literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences. You’ll be asked to interpret, synthesize, and use evidence from the passages to answer questions.
Writing and Language Test: This section tests your ability to revise and edit texts from a range of subjects. You’ll need to demonstrate your understanding of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.
Math:
The Math section covers a range of topics, including algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math. It is divided into two parts: one that allows the use of a calculator and one that does not.
Adaptive Testing
The Digital SAT uses adaptive testing technology. After the first stage of each section (Reading/Writing and Math), the difficulty of the second stage is adjusted based on your performance in the first stage. This means that the test can provide a more precise measurement of your abilities.
Scoring
Scale: The total score ranges from 400 to 1600, with each of the two sections (EBRW and Math) scored on a scale of 200 to 800.
Subscores: In addition to the overall score, you’ll receive subscores for specific skills, which can provide insight into your strengths and areas for improvement.
Preparation
Official Practice: The College Board provides official practice materials, including full-length practice tests, on its website and through its partnership with Khan Academy.
Study Plan: Develop a study plan that covers all the content areas of the exam. Focus on areas where you feel less confident.
Practice Tests: Take regular practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and timing of the exam. Review your answers to understand your mistakes and learn from them.
Test Day
Arrival: Arrive at the test center early to check in and get settled.
Identification: Bring an acceptable photo ID and your test registration information.
Materials: You’ll be provided with scratch paper and a pencil for the Math section. A calculator is allowed for one part of the Math section, and an on-screen calculator will be available.
After the Test
Scores: Your scores will be available online approximately two to three weeks after the test date.
Sending Scores: You can send your scores to colleges and universities as part of your application process.
Tips
Practice Reading: Since the Reading section involves passages from various subjects, regular reading across different genres can help improve your comprehension skills.
Math Fundamentals: Make sure you have a strong grasp of the fundamental math concepts covered in the exam.
Time Management: Practice managing your time effectively during each section to ensure that you can answer all questions.
by admin | Apr 6, 2024 | Genel
Preparing for the verbal part of the SAT, which includes the Reading and Writing & Language sections, requires a strategic approach to improve your vocabulary, reading comprehension, and grammar skills. Here are some tips and resources to help you prepare:
Reading Section
Practice Regular Reading: Read a variety of materials, including fiction, non-fiction, scientific articles, and historical texts, to get used to different writing styles and vocabulary.
Annotate Texts: While reading, practice annotating texts by highlighting key points, summarizing paragraphs, and noting any unfamiliar words.
Practice with SAT Passages: Use official SAT practice materials to familiarize yourself with the types of passages and questions you’ll encounter. Pay attention to how questions are framed and the strategies for finding answers.
Build Vocabulary: While reading, keep a list of new words and their definitions. Use flashcards or apps like Quizlet to review them regularly.
Writing & Language Section
Brush Up on Grammar Rules: Review grammar rules related to punctuation, sentence structure, and usage. Resources like the Purdue OWL website or grammar books can be helpful.
Practice Editing: Find practice materials that allow you to edit sentences or paragraphs for grammatical errors. This will help you develop an eye for spotting mistakes.
Understand the Types of Questions: Familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked in this section, such as those related to word choice, sentence structure, and organization of ideas.
General Tips
Take Practice Tests: Regularly take full-length practice tests to get used to the timing and format of the exam. Review your answers to understand your mistakes.
Use Official SAT Resources: The College Board offers official SAT practice tests and resources through its website and Khan Academy. These materials are designed to closely match the actual exam.
Join a Study Group: Joining a study group or finding a study partner can provide motivation and help you gain different perspectives on tackling questions.
Seek Feedback: If possible, seek feedback from teachers or tutors on your practice essays and answers to understand where you can improve.
Stay Consistent: Set aside regular study time each week to focus on the verbal sections. Consistency is key to making progress.
By following these tips and utilizing the resources mentioned, you can effectively prepare for the verbal part of the SAT and improve your performance on the exam.
by admin | Apr 6, 2024 | Genel
Preparing for the Math part of the SAT requires a solid understanding of mathematical concepts and the ability to apply them in various contexts. Here are some tips and resources to help you prepare:
Review Key Concepts
Understand the Content: The Math section covers topics in algebra, problem-solving and data analysis, and advanced math (including geometry and trigonometry). Make sure you understand the fundamental concepts in these areas.
Practice Basic Skills: Ensure that you have a strong grasp of basic arithmetic, algebraic manipulations, and geometric principles.
Practice and Apply
Solve Practice Problems: Use official SAT practice materials and other resources to solve a wide range of math problems. This will help you become familiar with the types of questions asked on the exam.
Apply Real-World Scenarios: Try to apply mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios, as the SAT often presents questions in the context of practical situations.
Work on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas in math and focus on improving them. Use targeted practice exercises to strengthen these skills.
Develop Test-Taking Strategies
Learn to Work Efficiently: Practice solving problems under timed conditions to improve your speed and accuracy. Learn to recognize when to move on from a question if it’s taking too long.
Use Process of Elimination: In multiple-choice questions, use the process of elimination to narrow down your choices.
Double-Check Your Work: If time permits, review your answers to catch any mistakes.
Resources
Official SAT Practice: The College Board offers free official SAT practice tests and resources in partnership with Khan Academy. These materials are designed to closely match the actual exam.
SAT Prep Books: There are many SAT prep books available that provide comprehensive reviews of math concepts, practice questions, and test-taking strategies. Some popular options include The College Board’s “Official SAT Study Guide” and books by Kaplan and Princeton Review.
Online Platforms: Websites like Khan Academy, Quizlet, and IXL offer practice problems and tutorials on various math topics.
Math Apps: Apps like Photomath and Mathway can help you solve problems and understand the steps involved.
Tutoring: Consider working with a tutor if you need personalized help in understanding math concepts or improving your problem-solving skills.
By following these tips and utilizing the resources mentioned, you can effectively prepare for the Math part of the SAT and improve your performance on the exam.
by admin | Apr 6, 2024 | Genel
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by admin | Sep 3, 2023 | Genel
