Out with the old and in with the new SAT format. Part 2

In following up with last week's piece on the new format this week I just want to emphasize some key areas of difference outside the actual test as well as remind you that preparation is important.

Switching to a digital format will make it easier for schools and proctors to administer the test. Because the test for every student is unique they will not worry about cheating. Students will be able to use their own computers or electronic devices but will need to download the College Board’s testing app at least a day before the test. There are a lot of helpful, cool features built into the app. Calculators, timers, and a flagging system for questions that students want to return to will all be available within the application.

One slight difference in the new SAT will be that the reading sections are more relevant to the current affairs of the world. This does not mean that the reading section will become a sort of current affairs or events test. It means that sections on science or politics will probably be written about discoveries or events that have happened in the very recent past. So as you prepare your reading, vocabulary and grammar skills focus on working with materials that are covering today’s world.

Remember the College Board is fighting to keep the SAT a mainstay of the college admissions process. There are now more than 1800 colleges and universities that are test optional. The University of California system won’t even accept test results as are a number of other schools. So expect this new format to try to re-energize and make the SAT more equitable but still be an excellent measure of a students ability to college preparedness. So you still need to study.

Preparation should still be the same as before. The test isn’t becoming easier, it is just becoming shorter and a bit different. Again, I do not advocate for spending money and time at test prep sites or companies. There are already plenty of digital practice tests available online in the new format. Have your child practice at home. Here are my recommendations for preparing yourself.

• Read as much as possible about current affairs, politics, economics, science and technology. The new format will incorporate more updated news and current events topics.
• Practice your grammar and build your vocabulary. Nothing is changing here. Know your verb tenses and when to use plurals and when not to.
• Do a SAT math problem or two a day. Algebra I and II as well as geometry and trigonometry. Students should already know this but just keep the formulas fresh in your head.
• Take plenty of mock tests, use online websites with real digital tests and make sure you have a timer and make it as real as possible.
• Lastly, review your results and find out where you need to improve. If you understand why you got specific problems wrong and learn from your mistakes it won’t take long for you to be an SAT test taking expert.

There are many online help tools for you to study and take practice tests. I really believe that Khan Academy is one of the best. Have your son or daughter spend a few hours a week practicing here while taking a mock test approximately every other week. www.Khanacademy.com

Famous Alumni

Dixy Lee Ray was the governor of the State of Washington and the Chairwoman of the United States Atomic Energy Commission. She received her undergraduate degree in biology from Mills College in Oakland, California and went on to PhD from Stanford University.