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SAT & ACT
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SENIORS: Have you taken the SAT or ACT?JUNIORS: Look at registration dates for 2020-2021.SHORECREST SCHOOL CODE: 481163
Seniors:
COVID-19 restrictions have clearly affected large group gatherings - including sittings for the SAT and ACT.Additionally, many four-year universities - including the University of Washington - have announced at least one year of (SAT or ACT) test optional applications. That means that for seniors in the Class of 2021, taking a first-time or repeat test may not be a good option for you.Many college admissions representatives are encouraging applicants to focus on the other parts of the application: an effective personal statement (if required); strong effort in coursework; evidence of extra-curricular, employment or volunteer activity that displays growth; and letters of recommendation (if allowed). In a nutshell, give the colleges you are applying to other good reasons to admit you.It is important to know this difference: "test optional" does not mean "test blind." That means that colleges may not require your SAT or ACT score for you to apply - but they may consider them when reviewing your application. Use your Naviance account to see exactly how the schools you are considering weigh exam scores.As always, two-year/community colleges do NOT require the SAT or ACT.Juniors: it is still unclear what emphasis - if any - colleges will place on SAT or ACT for your application cycle. If you choose to pursue an exam, you can start practicing for FREE with these:
- #PracticewithaPurpose? Take a free SAT or ACT pop quiz, 20-minute workout, and full proctored practice test and we’ll donate a Kaplan scholarship to students in need. Sign up now! http://ktp.events/waorak
- College Go mobile app: https://lp.collegeboard.org/free-collegego-mobile-app
To register for an official SAT, students must open an account at CollegeBoard.org. To register for an official ACT, please go to ACT.org. Need a test fee waiver? Please see your Shorecrest counselor.
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Start practicing today with hundreds of previously unreleased Math, Reading, and Writing questions from real SATs and more than 200 videos that show step-by-step solutions to each question:
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ACT vs. SAT ComparisonsMost colleges accept scores from either test, so you can take the test that’s right for you. Your college application journey is likely starting with the question, “Which test should I take?” Use this guide from Kaplan to help you decide:
Test Structure and Format
ACT
SAT
Length
3 hours, 35 minutes (including the optional Writing Test, not including breaks)
3 hours, 50 minutes (including the optional Essay, not including breaks)
Structure
4 sections*
- English
- Math
- Reading
- Science
*Plus an Optional Writing Test
4 sections*
- Reading
- Writing and Language
- Math without a Calculator
- Math with a Calculator
*Plus an Optional Essay
Scoring
ACT
SAT
Score
You will receive a composite score on a 1–36 scale. This score is an average of your scores on the 4 multiple-choice test sections (each section is scored on 1–36 scale).
The optional Writing Test is not included in the composite score. You will receive 5 scores for the Writing Test: one overall score on a 2–12 scale and 4 domain scores, also 2–12, that are based on an analytic scoring rubric.
You will receive an overall score out of 1600. This score is calculated by adding your score on the Math section with your score on the Evidence-Based Reading & Writing section (each section is scored on a 200–800 scale).
The optional Essay is not included in the overall score. You will receive 3 scores for the essay: Reading, Analysis, and Writing, which are all on 2–8 scale.
Wrong Answer Penalty
No penalty for wrong answers.
No penalty for wrong answers.
Sending Score History to Colleges
You can decide which score is sent to colleges. Note: all scores from your selected test date are sent.
You can decide which score is sent to colleges. Note: all scores from your selected test date are sent.
Topics Covered
ACT
SAT
Reading
Key Ideas and Details
Craft and Structure
Integration of Knowledge and IdeasCommand of Evidence
Words in Context
Analysis in History/Social Studies and in ScienceMath
Preparing for Higher Math:
- Number and Quantity
- Algebra
- Functions
- Geometry
- Statistics and Probability
Integrating Essential Skills
ModelingHeart of Algebra
Problem Solving and Data Analysis
Passport to Advanced Math
Additional Topics in MathScience
Interpretation of Data
Scientific Investigation
Evaluation of Models, Inferences, and Experimental ResultsScience content is not tested on the SAT, but the test does measure your ability to interpret charts, infographics, and data on scientific topics in other sections.
A Science Insight Score, based on these abilities, is provided.
English/Writing and Language
Production of Writing
Knowledge of Language
Conventions of EnglishOptional Writing Test (essay)
Command of Evidence
Words in Context
Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science
Expression of IdeasOptional Essay
Essay
Optional final section, 40 minute testing time
Separate score, not included in composite score
Topic presents conversations around contemporary issues
Tests ability to argue a point of view in a clear way, using concrete examples
Optional final section
50 minute testing time
Separate score, not included in overall score
Topic comes from a 750-word passage to be read on test day
Tests reading, analysis, and writing skillsFrequently Asked Questions:"Which should I take - the SAT or the ACT?"Take five minutes and answer 13 questions for free to see which style works better for you.http://www.kaptest.com/college-prep/test-information/sat-vs-actor check out this info-graphic: https://www.princetonreview.com/college/sat-vs-act-infographic"How do I know if the college(s) I want to apply to require the writing portion of the ACT or SAT?"
See an updated list of schools requiring this at: http://www.compassprep.com/act-writing-and-sat-essay-requirements
(From the PrincetonReview.com)Colleges will accept either the SAT or ACT. So which should you take?
It's all about the numbers. Some students end up scoring substantially higher on the SAT; others do better on the ACT. In lieu of a crystal ball, we created The Princeton Review Assessment (PRA) designed to help you determine which test is better fit with your abilities.
To help you zero in on the right exam, here are seven key differences:
ACT questions tend to be more straightforward.
ACT questions are often easier to understand on a first read. On the SAT, you may need to spend time figuring out what you're being asked before you can start solving the problem. For example, here are sample questions from the SAT essay and the ACT writing test (their name for the essay):
SAT: What is your view of the claim that something unsuccessful can still have some value?
ACT: In your view, should high schools become more tolerant of cheating?
The SAT has a stronger emphasis on vocabulary.
If you're an ardent wordsmith, you'll love the SAT. If words aren't your thing, you may do better on the ACT.
The ACT has a Science section, while the SAT does not.
You don't need to know anything about amoebas or chemical reactions for the ACT Science section. It is meant to test your reading and reasoning skills based upon a given set of facts. But if you're a true science-phobe, the SAT might be a better fit.
The ACT tests more advanced math concepts.
In addition to basic arithmetic, algebra I and II, and geometry, the ACT tests your knowledge of trigonometry, too. That said, the ACT Math section is not necessarily harder, since many students find the questions to be more straightforward than those on the SAT.
The ACT Writing Test is optional on test day, but required by many schools.
The 25-minute SAT essay is required and is factored into your writing score. The 30-minute ACT writing test is optional. If you choose to take it, it is not included in your composite score — schools will see it listed separately. Many colleges require the writing section of the ACT, so be sure to check with the schools where you are applying before opting out.
The SAT is broken up into more sections.
On the ACT, you tackle each content area (English, Math, Reading and Science) in one big chunk, with the optional writing test at the end. On the SAT, the content areas (Critical Reading, Math and Writing) are broken up into 10 sections, with the required essay at the beginning. You do a little math, a little writing, a little critical reading, a little more math, etc. When choosing between the SAT and ACT, ask yourself if moving back and forth between content areas confuse you or keep you energized?
The ACT is more of a "big picture" exam.
College admissions officers care about how you did on each section of the SAT. On the ACT, they're most concerned with your composite score. So if you're weak in one content area but strong in others, you could still end up with a very good ACT score and thus make a strong impression with the admissions committee.
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SAT & ACT Preparation Classes and Study Opportunities:
SATPrep.org - at Shorecrest - but not hosted by Shorecrest. Practice test, six-session prep course, textbook and materials: $389. Register online using credit card: www.satprep.org. Questions? Email office@SATPrep.org or call 425.305.7269. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 25, 27, March 3, 5, 10 and 12, 2020. And 4:30-7:15 p.m. See other nearby locations and dates at www.SATPrep.org
Study Smart at University of Washington – Seattle (UW Womens Center): Session 1: Thursdays, Jan. 16, 23 and 30, 5:30-8:30 p.m., at UW Seattle Campus, Womens Center conference room. $150. Register at: https://m.bpt.me/event/4445287 OR Session 2: Thursdays, Feb. 13, 20 and 27, 5:30-8:30 p.m., at UW Seattle Campus Womens Center conference room. $150. Register at: https://m.bpt.me/event/4447350. Session 3: March 5, 12 and 19, 5:30-8:30 p.m., at UW Seattle campus, Womens Center conference room. Register at https://m.bpt.me/event/4447361
ACT Test preparation
Kaplan Test Prep offers a variety of FREE online ACT prep classes:
They also offer fee-based test prep, including a self-paced online option:
http://www.kaptest.com/ACT/ACT-prep-course/ACT-prep-self-paced
EDGE Academics & Athletics: College Application Guidance with local Lake Forest Park-based program
College Application Cafe' Summer Personal Statement Writing Workshops:5:1 student/instructor ratio. Enrollment limited to 10 students per session.Approximate cost: $1,850. Includes application scheduling; researching college list; reviewing test-taking strategies; securing letters of recommendation; completing all personal statements, and primary and supplemental essays. Aug. 19-23 in Lake Forest Park, eight-hour sessions.College Application Workshops in November-March, by reservation.Details: http://mycollegegameplan.com.Contact: Emily Gallagher. 206.240.6202/info@mycollegegameplan.comSandweiss Test PrepFree diagnostic test offered before practice course series.Both ACT and SAT course feature 14.5 hours of classrooms instruction and several full-length tests. Class size limited to 12 students; one-to-one prep also available.Courses offered for SAT, ACT, SAT II and ISEE.University District and Bellevue locations; lead by a Lake Forest Park couple.Saturday and Sunday classes available.$575 includes all books and materials.206-417-5050www.sandweisstestprep.comVarsity Tutors (local): 206.743.1564.One-on-one tutoring.ACT and SAT tutoring.Free online classes at: https://www.varsitytutors.com/free-sat-act-prep-courseFREE Kaplan Test PrepTake a FREE practice test every Saturday in Seattle. Register at 1-800-KAP-TEST. Other dates available.Online at kaptest.com/practicetest.SAT and ACT Test Prep classes. Check the website for detailsKaplan Private Tutors (Tim Hossain)Travels to student homesSeattle Kaplan Center421 University Way NESeattle, WA 98105206-985-13221-800 KAP-TEST
March 2 Success: https://www.march2success.com/main/learnmore/collegeprep Teaming with Petersons and College Options Foundation, March 2 Success offers practice tests, flashcards and games to help students prepare for college entrance exams. Includes seven full-length, timed- and scored- practice tests for the SAT and ACT. When a section is completed, students can review their test and see detailed explanations. The practice test sections also include information about the test, test dates and tips and test taking strategies.Also offered: 25 decks of flashcards (20 Verbal and 5 Math) ranging in difficulty from easy to hard; Zero Hour Threat I & II SAT/ACT preparation games. These games allow users to review for their test while playing an interactive game. Each question you answer correctly brings you closer to resolving the game scenario.
Teaming with Petersons, it also features practice test banks with detailed explanations in the following categories:
- Social Science: A total of 1002 practice questions covering Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Financial Accounting and Personal Finance.
- Nursing: Practice materials for all standards nursing entrance exams – PAX-RN, PSB-Registered Nursing School Aptitude Examination (RN), Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), and PSB-Health Occupations Aptitude Examination.
- Technology: A total of 1200 practice questions covering Information Systems and Computer Applications, Introduction to Computing, Management Information Systems and Technical Writing.
- Pre-Engineering: A total of 725 practice questions covering Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Physics.
- Math: Includes 1194 practice questions covering Algebra, College-Level Algebra, Data Analysis and Probability, Geometry, Numbers and Operations, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Statistics and Business Math. The Math unit also includes learning modules with interactive exercises.
Applerouth Tutoring Services: Free full-length SAT or ACT practice tests under real conditions. Each test comes with detailed score report highlighting your personal strengths and weaknesses. Test at Seattle University on downtown's First Hill or at Bellevue College on summer 2017 Saturdays.Prep classes for up to six students with three practices tests also available ($899).Details: 206.456.6864https://www.applerouth.com/signup/?scheduleid=249200Education Access Network - www.educationaccessnetwork.orgSAT and ACT Test Prep classes. Check the website for detailsDartmoor School - www.dartmoor.orgOne-to-one tutoring at office locations (Bellevue, Issaquah Plateau, Seattle and Woodinville)13401 Bel-Red Rd #B4Bellevue, WA 98005425-957-9862Sylvan Learning Center - www.educate.comContact: Tami Haan, 425-609-8257Locations in Everett and Lynnwood. $960 for 34 hours of small class instruction,and $40 to $45 per hour for individualized instructional time.PrepNorthwest (Molly Metz and Terry Lin)Services provided in Kirkland.12006 98th Ave. NE, Suite 104Kirkland, WA 98034Chegg Test Prep: Access to SAT, ACT, and GRE test prep guides - including a link to the Top 50 strategies for SAT test day.SAT Test Prep: http://www.chegg.com/test-prep/satACT Test Prep: http://www.chegg.com/test-prep/act*SATPrep.org designates a portion of registration feeds to support students through Shorecrest PTSA