Standardized Stressing
The SAT is an important part of getting into college, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating to the prepared student.
Preparation is key to mastering the SAT.
Few things have the potential to make the college-minded student (and parent) nervous like the SAT test, and for good reason, as the test score can have a impact on not only whether a child is accepted to a certain college, but also what scholarship money is available.
“It’s a shame that a four-hour test on a Saturday morning is significantly weighed at colleges when students have the last three-and-a-half years of their academic history that already speaks volumes about their ability,” says Bridget Hotrum, owner of College Bound Admissions Academy, which guides high school students through the college selection, application and financial aid processes. “It puts a lot of stress on students, and I think it’s unfortunate, but it’s one of those necessary evils.” That’s a lot for a 17-year-old to deal with.
But while intimidating, the SAT is an obstacle that can be overcome with some planning and preparation. A key to doing well is knowing what to expect, according to the College Board, the organization that administers the exam. The Board recommends that students take the Preliminary SAT test (PSAT), as well as multiple practice exams before attempting the real thing. Practice exams and study materials are available at bookstores and online at www.collegeboard.com.
Hotrum recommends that students take an SAT preparation course that will teach the types of questions to expect along with strategies for answering them. Strategy is important because the SAT is designed to measure a student’s reasoning ability, not simply the facts he or she has learned over the years. Hotrum’s clients take a 12-week, 36-hour course. “It’s one of those things where, if you put in the effort, you’ll increase your scores,” she says.
The test has undergone several changes in recent years. In addition to the standard math and reading sections, there is now a writing component to the SAT. In this section, students must answer multiple choice questions, and then write a short essay on a given topic. The essay is graded by two random high school or college English teachers, and their grades, on a scale of one-through-six, are combined for a final score. The bad news is that this adds another hour to the test. The good news may be that many colleges are ignoring the writing section when considering applicants.
The SAT no longer includes quantitative comparisons or analogies. Both were dropped because they are less connected to the current high school curriculum, according to the College Board.
The price of taking the SAT has also increased, from $28.50 to $41.50. In its first year, 2005, this new SAT has resulted in lower scores around the country, a drop of about five points from 2004. Some blame the test’s epic four-hour length. Others say that the price increase has made students reluctant to take the SAT more than once.
Whether you’re taking it for the first time or the third, plan to relax the night before the test. That means no parties, no dates, and no other activities. If it’s possible, Hotrum advises clearing your work schedule as well. Get enough sleep to feel rested the next morning, and make time for a good breakfast.
Remember to have your supplies in order, Hotrum advises. You’ll want to bring at least two No. 2 pencils, some quality erasers, a calculator with fresh batteries, a bottle of water and some snacks (you’re going to be there for several hours). To avoid a morning rush, Hotrum recommends placing these items in your car the night before. And remember to wear a watch.
Arrive at least 20 minutes early, and allow yourself extra time for any unusual weather or traffic conditions. •
|
