standardized Test prep for s t n e

standardized Test prep for s t n e r a p Presenters Bo Smeureanu Sebastian Smeureanu

On the agenda. . . ✓why we should take the tests ✓what are these tests ✓how to prepare for them ✓how to handle the scores ✓when ✓how to take them to plan

WHY? I. we LOVE tests! II. they’re required III. they provide for a fair comparison to students from other regions IV. we prefer it to the time spent on some resort vacation in Bora. . . hot sun, cool water, refreshing breeze, nice cold. . . anyway! A) I only B) II and IV C) II and III D) I, II, and III

why? ✓assess strengths and weaknesses before reaching college ✓demonstrate the ability to learn and apply knowledge ✓compare ourselves with students at colleges we’re considering ✓qualify for National Merit Scholarship (PSAT) ✓obtain Merit Aid (SAT/ACT) ✓obtain college credit (AP/CLEP) ✓place in higher-level course work in first year of college (Subject Tests)

The tests The SAT The PSAT/NMSQT ✓ equally used by colleges as ACT ✓ tests student’s basic knowledge of reading, mathematics, and writing ✓ ✓ demonstrates student’s ability to reason, solve problems, and communicate it emphasizes the application of knowledge ✓ co-sponsored by the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation ✓ chance to practice for the SAT ✓ a “heads-up” to strengths and weaknesses ✓ a chance to enter scholarship competitions ✓ an opportunity to start receiving more junk mail!

The tests The SAT Subject Test The ACT ✓ shows colleges a student’s mastery with a particular subject area ✓ used in admissions and placement decisions colleges match students with programs ✓ used to be the “new kid in town” ✓ substitutes for the SAT ✓ unfortunately, many times, it complements the SAT : ( ✓ measures English and mathematical skills, reading comprehension, and scientific reasoning ✓ is the biggest culprit in scheduling/planning issues! ✓ helps with advice in college course selection ✓ given in English Lit, Math, History, Science, and Languages ✓ one hour each, max three tests on one day

The tests Advanced Placement Program (AP) ✓ ✓ College-level Examination Program (CLEP) opportunity to take college-level courses and exams while still in high school ✓ open to students of all ages ✓ a chance to graduate faster by earning credit for what you already know (i. e. , language, math) ✓ could save you money, speed up graduation, or even. . . allow you to graduate on time! chance to earn college credit or advanced placement

The tests PSAT v. SAT

The tests SAT v. ACT

The tests SAT v. ACT

Scores – PSAT

Scores - PSAT

Scores - PSAT

Scores - PSAT

Scores - PSAT In the past the national index for commendation was 209 and for semifinalist for NJ was 222(different for each state--NJ one of the highest)

Scores - PSAT

preparing the Student’s Job science math english ✓ learn grammar ✓ acquire vocabulary ✓ know the basics! ✓ understand concepts ✓ read out of comfort zone ✓ do your homework ✓ ✓ take challenging classes analyze relationships among data, concepts, processes ✓ know how to read a graph! ✓ ✓ read within comfort zone! develop a structured writing style ✓ understand concepts

preparing Your Job ✓know your child ✓track school progress (from early on) ✓involve them in mentally challenging activities ✓facilitate ✓have ✓. . . them finding a direction early on a plan save $$$!

timing when. . . ?

q&a