Soar Through Standardized Tests
Scoring well on standardized tests (e.g., SAT or ACT) is an extremely effective way to impress a college coach. Most colleges require you to submit your scores, factor them into their admissions decisions, and must accept your scores before you’re considered eligible for athletics. Successfully soar through and ace either test with the following advice.
The Tests
The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) measures reasoning and critical thinking skills. It’s comprised of three sections—critical reading, mathematics and writing—and it includes 140 multiple-choice questions, math equations and a written essay.
You might find that the advanced vocabulary throughout the test is tricky and confusing— and it’s intended to be that way. Test questions become increasingly difficult, and students are penalized for incorrect answers. The SAT challenges your test-taking abilities. It’s better suited for students who are strong testtakers and have solid deductive reasoning skills.
Formerly “American College Testing,” the ACT is a curriculum-based test that measures English, mathematics, reading and science knowledge. The ACT is a better fit for students who take challenging high school courses (honors or AP classes) but who don’t consider themselves strong test takers.
The ACT has 215 multiple-choice questions of roughly equal difficultly, and unlike the SAT, you’re not penalized for incorrect answers.
You can repeat either test, and schools will use your highest scores when examining your application; however, they can actually view all of your SAT results. For the ACT, you can lock only your top score for review.
Practice testing
Taking practice tests is one of the best ways to develop time management skills and to better understand standardized test questions. Students typically take the Practice SAT (PSAT) in October of their sophomore or junior year. This allows ample time to prepare for the real deal. The PSAT is also a qualifying test if you’re applying for a National Merit Scholarship.
No pre-test exists for the ACT, but most students find it advantageous to take the exam midway through junior year, because by then they’ve learned the majority of the coursework covered. This also leaves time for re testing, if desired. ACT research indicates that 55 percent of students who retake the test improve their score.
Prep classes
Studies indicate that most students improve their scores after taking a standardized test preparation class. Such classes feature professional tutors who review test materials and help you develop strategies to maximize your allotted time for each section of the test. Research online to find classes, and sign up for either group or private tutoring.
Flash cards
Use flash cards as a simple way to expose yourself to the types of questions and concepts you’ll encounter come test time. The repetition can improve your understanding of difficult questions and give you the ability to break them down into simpler parts. Flash cards are great study tools to use during travel to long road games and tournament trips.
When to start
Don’t wait until the last possible opportunity to take the SAT or ACT. End of junior year is ideal, because it gives students time for re-takes. For those who apply Early Decision to colleges, October of senior year will be their last test opportunity. For anyone else, mid-December is the last real deadline.
Testing and Academics
Helpful tips for the SAT or ACT and college essays
SAT/ACT prep classes
Can’t find an SAT/ACT prep class in your area? Take an online course. Either join a group session or work with a private tutor. Princeton Review, Kaplan SAT Prep and Ivy Bound Test Prep use top-flight tutors, who guarantee a higher test score or your money back.
Standardized testing flash cards
Several websites, such as flashcardsecrets.com and vocabahead.com, offer student-athletes access to flash cards that are proven to work. Some websites offer a downloadable app for the iPod.
College essays
WeGotIn.net breaks down the college essay. The website guides you through the writing process, revealing evaluation criteria through samples of accepted application essays. Plagiarism is not cool. Use the samples solely as models for structure, vocabulary and inspiration.
Related Links:
Antonio Gates: A Recruiting Story Like No Other
Academics
Recruiting Support Network
Financial Aid
Self-Marketing
Researching Colleges
Effective Networking With a College Coach
Campus Visits
Gauging Interest
NCAA Rules & Regs
Recruiting Checklist
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Soar Through Standardized Tests
Scoring well on standardized tests (e.g., SAT or ACT) is an extremely effective way to impress a college coach. Most colleges require you to submit your scores, factor them into their admissions decisions, and must accept your scores before you’re considered eligible for athletics. Successfully soar through and ace either test with the following advice.
The Tests
The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) measures reasoning and critical thinking skills. It’s comprised of three sections—critical reading, mathematics and writing—and it includes 140 multiple-choice questions, math equations and a written essay.
You might find that the advanced vocabulary throughout the test is tricky and confusing— and it’s intended to be that way. Test questions become increasingly difficult, and students are penalized for incorrect answers. The SAT challenges your test-taking abilities. It’s better suited for students who are strong testtakers and have solid deductive reasoning skills.
Formerly “American College Testing,” the ACT is a curriculum-based test that measures English, mathematics, reading and science knowledge. The ACT is a better fit for students who take challenging high school courses (honors or AP classes) but who don’t consider themselves strong test takers.
The ACT has 215 multiple-choice questions of roughly equal difficultly, and unlike the SAT, you’re not penalized for incorrect answers.
You can repeat either test, and schools will use your highest scores when examining your application; however, they can actually view all of your SAT results. For the ACT, you can lock only your top score for review.
Practice testing
Taking practice tests is one of the best ways to develop time management skills and to better understand standardized test questions. Students typically take the Practice SAT (PSAT) in October of their sophomore or junior year. This allows ample time to prepare for the real deal. The PSAT is also a qualifying test if you’re applying for a National Merit Scholarship.
No pre-test exists for the ACT, but most students find it advantageous to take the exam midway through junior year, because by then they’ve learned the majority of the coursework covered. This also leaves time for re testing, if desired. ACT research indicates that 55 percent of students who retake the test improve their score.
Prep classes
Studies indicate that most students improve their scores after taking a standardized test preparation class. Such classes feature professional tutors who review test materials and help you develop strategies to maximize your allotted time for each section of the test. Research online to find classes, and sign up for either group or private tutoring.
Flash cards
Use flash cards as a simple way to expose yourself to the types of questions and concepts you’ll encounter come test time. The repetition can improve your understanding of difficult questions and give you the ability to break them down into simpler parts. Flash cards are great study tools to use during travel to long road games and tournament trips.
When to start
Don’t wait until the last possible opportunity to take the SAT or ACT. End of junior year is ideal, because it gives students time for re-takes. For those who apply Early Decision to colleges, October of senior year will be their last test opportunity. For anyone else, mid-December is the last real deadline.
Testing and Academics
Helpful tips for the SAT or ACT and college essays
SAT/ACT prep classes
Can’t find an SAT/ACT prep class in your area? Take an online course. Either join a group session or work with a private tutor. Princeton Review, Kaplan SAT Prep and Ivy Bound Test Prep use top-flight tutors, who guarantee a higher test score or your money back.
Standardized testing flash cards
Several websites, such as flashcardsecrets.com and vocabahead.com, offer student-athletes access to flash cards that are proven to work. Some websites offer a downloadable app for the iPod.
College essays
WeGotIn.net breaks down the college essay. The website guides you through the writing process, revealing evaluation criteria through samples of accepted application essays. Plagiarism is not cool. Use the samples solely as models for structure, vocabulary and inspiration.
Related Links:
Antonio Gates: A Recruiting Story Like No Other
Academics
Recruiting Support Network
Financial Aid
Self-Marketing
Researching Colleges
Effective Networking With a College Coach
Campus Visits
Gauging Interest
NCAA Rules & Regs
Recruiting Checklist
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