Understanding the PSAT & SAT A guide to the fundamentals of the PSAT and SAT.

The College Board The College Board (www.collegeboard.org) is the governing body of the SAT, PSAT, and AP tests. We recommend all parents sign up for updates from College Board to learn about the practice opportunities, assessments, colleges, and scholarships. Use this link to receive updates from the College Board.

The College Board Site: Example page

PSAT and SAT Testing Schedule 10th Grade -All 10th grade students take the PSAT in April 2019 (taken online per state requirement) -Part of Rhode Island’s state assessment requirements. 11th Grade -All 11th grade students take the SAT in April 2019 -Part of Rhode Island’s state assessment requirements. PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT): Is a separate PSAT test In October for 11th grade students who automatically become eligible for scholarship (score dependent). 10th grade students are encouraged to take the PSAT/NMSQT, however, they are not eligible for the scholarship.

Test Basics PSAT -Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: Read passages & interpret graphics to answer questions -Writing: Read variety of texts (science, literature, history) and answer specific and overview questions -Math section: Range of math practices, with an emphasis on problem solving, modeling, & using algebraic structure - SAT -Reading section based on passages, may contain graphs or tables -Writing and Language section asks students to read and answer questions on evidence, words in context, and standard English conventions -Math section has questions on problem solving, modeling, and algebraic structure with some ‘grid-in’ questions -Optional essay: Read a passage, explain how author builds argument, & support explanation with evidence

Sample Reading Question

Sample Math Question

Additional Math Problem

Practice Opportunities Link CollegeBoard account to Kahn Academy: see link below Enables students to link areas of focus to specific practice videos on Kahn Academy https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/practice/khan-academy Daily practice App available through Collegeboard SAT practice tests: Online practice tests available through Collegeboard

How to link CollegeBoard account to Kahn academy.

Steps for Parents Bookmark CollegeBoard.org on web browser Review college planning guides on financial planning, academics, and a general timeline for the college application process Encourage child to take challenging courses, and remind them of key life skills: Time management Collaboration Communication Basic research skills Know the basics of standardized tests: Do NOT need to be an expert, but familiar enough to ask questions and be informed.

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