Test Prep

In general, there is a trend towards de-emphasizing standardized tests, particularly for liberal arts colleges. However, the SAT and ACT are still relevant in the application process and success on the test is sometimes considered an indicator of college readiness. In preparing for the SAT or ACT, students are training for the test. This is not the same as studying for another class, because the approach to the test is different from almost any other test taken in school.Still, standardized tests are only one piece of the college application.

The college application is broken into five parts:

• The application itself (including name, address, school and activity list)

• Transcript (GPA, trends, difficulty of classes)

• Personal statement/essay/writing sample

• Letters of Recommendation

• Standardized tests (SAT, ACT, subject tests)

There are many factors to consider when deciding which test is right for your student. The good news is that both tests are accepted by all US colleges and universities, so individuals may choose which test is right for them. Many students also take both tests (or at least practice tests) to see which one they prefer.There are a few major differences between the ACT and SAT.

Timing:

• The ACT is a faster-paced test. Overall,the test is 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 40 minutes for the optional essay). This averages to 49 seconds per question.

• The SAT is 3 hours long (plus 50 minutes for the optional essay), averaging 70 seconds per question. It is also often considered “trickier” because of the way questions are asked.

Content:

• The ACT has a science section and only one math section. This test is scored on a scale of 1-36, and the overall score is an average score in each of the four sections: math, science, reading, and English.

• The SAT does not have a science section, but it has two math sections (one with calculator and one without). SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, a summative combination of Math (200-800 points) and Evidence Based Reading and Writing (200-800 points).

For more on this subject, check out this blog post. If you need help deciding which test would be a better fit, we are happy to discuss this with you and dive deeper into the differences in tested content.

While there are endless resources for test prep materials, here are some options we recommend:

• The Official ACT Prep Guide

• The Official SAT Study Guide (make sure to get the newest edition)

Additional resources:

• Khan Academy (great for practice outside of sessions)

• Princeton Review: ACT and SAT for self study

• Vocab: 30 days to a more powerful vocabulary

Our flexible and one-on-one tutoring approach at LTLS is especially helpful for students with accommodations. We seek to support students across the learning continuum rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach. It is important to be aware that the process for gaining test accommodations is lengthy (7+ weeks) and should be started as soon as possible. The most common request is for extended time, and this needs to be submitted through the learning resource coordinator or school counselor at your high school. Students who already receive accommodations at school are not automatically granted accommodations for the test. Standardized test accommodations are also dependent on how recently a student has been evaluated and whether or not a student is routinely utilizing accommodations in the the school setting.

A few schools require the essay, and if this is true of one of your target schools, sign up! If your schools don’t require the essay, skip it. Some schools will factor it into their decision if you go through the trouble, but many others will not even look at it.

The college application process can be a long one, and most students are balancing multiple priorities during their junior and senior year. We recommend that students take the ACT/SAT during the spring of their junior year so that they may retest again later on if necessary. However, taking the test too early may not be a benefit. Most students will not learn the content they need, especially for the math sections, until junior year. Therefore, trying to take the test before concepts have been learned may negatively impact scores. Keep in mind that the Seattle Public Schools administer the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) to sophomores and the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) to students in October of their junior year.College application deadlines should also be factored into the testing timeline, especially if students are considering early admissions.We recommend trying to avoid test prep when students are also in the middle of studying for AP exams and final exams if possible. Maintaining focus on test prep and minimizing stress in the process is important.

While our goal is to not overload the student with additional homework, in order to gain the maximum benefit from test prep, it is important to practice between sessions. When assigning homework, our tutors collaborate with the student to ensure it fits into their schedule and other demands.

LTLS partners with LB Kussick and Kussick College Coaching for guidance through the college application process. In addition, our tutors provide direct support for completing applications and the writing portion of college applications.