1 Prepare for the PSAT 8/9 ® : A Step to the Future

2 A Brief Overview of the Presentation  What is the PSAT 8/9?  Skills Tested on the PSAT 8/9  Test Preparation Strategies Notify students and parents about the PSAT/NMSQT ® :

3 What is the PSAT 8/9?

4 What is the PSAT 8/9 ® ?  The PSAT 8/9 is an assessment given to 8 th and 9 th grade students that is closely aligned to the PSAT/NMSQT.  Consists of questions in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math.  The PSAT 8/9 tests the same skills and knowledge as the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT, but the questions are at the 9 th grade level.

5 Benefits of the PSAT 8/9 ®  Establishes a baseline for students as they enter high school and begin to prepare for T24 readiness.  Gives students a chance to preview (without pressure) the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT.  Once students receive their test results they can connect to the Khan Academy to get free personalized study recommendations for the PSAT/NMSQT and SAT.  Students receive feedback on skills they need to work on for continued success through high school and college.  The PSAT 8/9 identifies academic strength areas.

6 What Skills are Tested on the PSAT 8/9? The PSAT 8/9 is highly relevant to your future success. Specifically, it measures: What you learn in school What you need to succeed in any T24 option There are 2 major components of the test: Evidence- Based Reading and Writing – Reading Test and Writing and Language Test Math

7 Reading Test What the Reading Test is Like: The Reading test will focus on the ability to:  Use context clues in a passage to figure out which meaning of a word or phrase is being used.  Decide how an author’s word choice shapes meaning, style, and tone. The Reading Test always includes:  One passage from a classic or contemporary work of U.S. or World Literature.  One passage from a U.S. founding document or a text in the great global conversation they inspired.  A selection about economics, psychology, sociology or some other social science.  Two science passages that examine foundational concepts and developments in Earth Science, biology, chemistry or physics. 13 Sentence Completions 35 Passage-Based Reading Questions (100- to 800-word passages)

8 Mathematics Test The Math test covers a range of math practices with an emphasis on problem solving, modeling, using tools strategically and using algebraic structure. Quick Facts:  Most math questions will be multiple choice, but some ask you to come up with the answer rather than select the answer. These are called “grid-ins”.  The Math Test is divided into two portions: Math test with calculator and math test without a calculator.  Some parts of the test include several questions about a single scenario.

9 Calculators are Encouraged A scientific or graphing calculator is recommended. Bring a familiar calculator. Test day is not the time to figure out how to use a new calculator.

10 Writing Test The Writing and Language Test will ask students to: Read. Find mistakes and weaknesses. Correct the mistakes. Quick Facts: All questions are multiple choice and based on passages. Some passages have informational graphs. The test measures: Command of Evidence Words in Context Analysis in History and Science Expression of Ideas Standard English Conventions

11 Test Preparation Strategies

12 How to prepare for the PSAT 8/9 The best way to prepare is to: Take challenging courses. Do your homework. Prepare for tests and quizzes. Ask and answer lots of questions. Points are earned for correct answers. There is no penalty for guessing. It’s best to answer each question in order to get the most beneficial feedback.

13 Test Preparation: Long-Term READ!  Continuous reading improves vocabulary and develops essential skills.  Read more books than just those required for class. Take Challenging Courses!  This will help you to develop and strengthen your critical thinking skills.

14 Test Preparation: Test Readiness Strategies When you sit down to take the test:  Read all of the directions.  Read all of each question’s answer choices.  Do scratch work in the test book.  Work at a steady pace.

15 Take the PSAT 8/9 Test Day/Date:Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015 Time:8:00 a.m. start time Location:Shadle Park High School Bring:  Two #2 Pencils  Calculator (optional)

16 Visit collegeboard.org