Home | Self-help | Education
Standardized tests taken by high school students nationally are heavily weighed as part of a complete application. There is obviously trepidation and stress over the actual test taking process. Before the tests are taken and once they are over, it’s important to keep in mind the affect that these tests have on acceptance to a school. Many people have spoken out against standardized tests, claiming they are a poor representation of a student’s intelligence or academic potential. The fact remains, standardized test are very important to colleges when it comes to admissions. The reason some students and administrators have been in opposition is because standardized tests are given and scored in a uniform or standard way. While accommodations are made for students with disabilities, but most other students who may have emotional problems or are simply not good test takers are all painted with the same brush. One or several test days can literally mean the difference between acceptances and denied admission to a school. Recently, in response to opposition to administering of the most popular standardized test, the SAT, changes have been made to improve the test itself. In lieu of the 1600 point grading scale that was in place, 2400 points scale has replaced that. Also, a writing section has been added in addition to the math and English sections. Some other subtle changes to questions have been made in the past few years. It remains to be seen whether students are reaping the benefits of these changes. The ACT provides another standardized test option for students. Some schools require only the SAT or the ACT but many schools accept scores from both. The ACT scores are based on a 36-point scale, but there is no required writing section. Students may opt to take the writing section if their potential colleges require a writing test. Students may take only one of the tests, or both. Knowing the importance standardized test have for colleges, it is therefore important to be prepared before taking a test. Some students opt to take test prep courses or even hire private tutors to prepare for this major test. The fee that students pay these professionals to help them with standardized tests are often deemed worthwhile when test scores are received or if a second or third attempt reaps greater scores. Both tests are administered across the country on national testing days. They both have national early and late-fee deadlines to register. The key to a strong performance on both tests on any day is preparation. Some stress is inevitable, but taking practice tests, sleeping well the night before and arriving early can eliminate unneeded worry. A clear mind allows testers to focus on the task at hand and the truth that, although important, the SAT and ACT are just tests. Standardized test aren’t the only indicator of student potential used by colleges, but they are one of the most important. High school students will need to take either the SAT or ACT at some point if they want to attend most colleges. If a high school student is knowledgeable about the tests, prepared, calm and focused then many college search doors will open up.
Article Source: http://www.SponsorDirectory.com/Free-Content
When not writing about college scholarships and college life Veronica Krully enjoys spending time with her family and supporting the local university. One thing all college students share in common: Tuition fees and the need for college scholarships
Please Rate this Article
5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5
Not yet Rated
