Embedded Files
HS JUNIORS: THE DIGITAL SAT IS COMING IN SPRING 2024! Make sure you're prepared for the changes.
1600/36?!
1600/36?!
Chances are you already have some SAT/ACT-related baggage: what's a good score, what your friends scored, what your parents want you to score . . . !
But that silly score number reveals so little about what it actually takes to earn it. The best thing you can do for your prep is to get clear on what it represents.
So what are they actually testing you on?
So what are they actually testing you on?
The one you probably guessed.
- content
On the surface, college entrance exams are academic tests.
On the surface, college entrance exams are academic tests.
They test material you'd likely have encountered by the end of junior year:
1) Math
1) Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra 1 & 2
Geometry
Mathematical reasoning
If you're taking the ACT, there'll also be a sprinkle of pre-calculus.
2) Reading Comprehension
2) Reading Comprehension
You'll be asked to read and answer questions about different texts:
Fiction (a piece of literature or narrative)
History/Social Studies Non-Fiction
Natural Science Non-Fiction
3) Writing and Language in English
3) Writing and Language in English
You'll be asked to edit passages based on certain rules of English:
Grammar
Clarity of expression
What about science?
What about science?
Yes, the ACT does have a "Science" section. However, they are not really testing you on prior science knowledge. Rather, think of the ACT's Science section more like Reading Comprehension, now with more numbers.
The ones you probably didn't guess.
2. Creative thinking
2. Creative thinking
Dig a little deeper . . .
Dig a little deeper . . .
Because the SAT/ACT are standardized, they must get creative to make their questions sophisticated. To make a math question hard, they're not allowed to give you calculus! Instead, they take familiar concepts and present them in unfamiliar contexts: think word problems, confusing variables, and a deluge of seemingly-unrelated givens.
Can you put the puzzle pieces together?
Can you start a problem you're not sure you can finish?
Can you think creatively even with a ticking clock?
Creative thinking in a time crunch on a potentially future-defining test?!
3. Self-assessment & prioritization
3. Self-assessment & prioritization
But to get a good score, you don't need to get all questions right.
But to get a good score, you don't need to get all questions right.
You only need 50-75% correct to get an above-average score. So the key to staying afloat is to prioritize certain questions and ditch others.
Can you prevent silly mistakes?
Can you think critically about where you've erred and adjust next time?
Can you take control of your process, even when the test is trying to throw you off balance?
And, inevitably . . .
4. resilience
4. resilience
No matter what your score goals, your progress will not be linear.
No matter what your score goals, your progress will not be linear.
You're only human, and these tests are hard. They're designed to put you up against uncertainty and frustration. I believe that they have much more in common with live performances and sports games than they do with regular academic tests. And there's a reason you can take them as many times as you want.
Can you recover from setbacks?
Can you give yourself grace when circumstances get in the way?
Can you hold yourself to a high standard and also keep perspective on the important things?
GET SUPPORT.
GET SUPPORT.
Book a session or consult with me for personalized guidance that meets your needs.
Happy studying!
Happy studying!
Want more expert advice? Subscribe to my newsletter!
Want more expert advice? Subscribe to my newsletter!
I promise I won't bombard your inbox - just essential human guidance to help you and your student succeed.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse