Tutoring and Test Prep

College Admissions Test Q and A's

2011-10-17T12:15:00.000-07:00

It is the middle of the fall college admission test season with two tests each, SAT and ACT, left for this year. November 5th and December 3 are the dates for the SAT. For the ACT we have October 22nd and December 10th remaining. As a general rule of thumb, the October ACT and November SAT are the latest test dates that will enable students to submit their scores in time for next fall's application deadlines. Some schools will accept the December tests, but it is best to confirm with the student's target schools before committing to the tests.

With this in mind, we decided to share a few of our college admissions test 'Q & A's' from our web site. The complete list is available at http://www.chyten-wf.com, we hope you find these questions and answers helpful and informative.

Q: Do colleges really take only your best three individual SAT component scores no matter how many times you take the test?

A: Yes, most colleges do take a student's highest SAT Reading, Writing, and Math scores from each and every SAT he or she takes and combine them to determine one's high SAT score. Some colleges, though, will instead consider a student's highest sitting; his or her highest overall score attained in one day. Other colleges have still other policies in dealing with multiple test scores. It is best to check with specific colleges to determine their policies. Either way, it is advisable for most students to take the SAT two or more times.

Q: When are the best times to take the SAT?

A: First and foremost, one should take the SAT when adequately prepared. There is little value in taking the SAT merely for practice, since there are many opportunities to take practice tests that are accompanied by detailed analytical reports such as Chyten's Magnostic. Because the College Board has optional score reporting for the SAT and SAT Subject Tests, early and often is the operative phrase. Taking tests multiple times gives each student the best chance of earning high scores. It should be noted that a small minority of schools ask students to report all scores. It should also be noted that the College Board will only report the scores requested by students, regardless of a college's policy.

Q: How many times should one take the SAT?

A: Students should take the SAT as many times as is necessary to reach his/her potential.

Q: How many breaks are there during the SAT? How long are these breaks?

A: There are three breaks totaling approximately 11 minutes during the three hour and 45 minute long SAT. These include a five-minute break after section two, a one-minute stretch break after section four and another five-minute break after section six. There are no breaks during the last four sections.

Q: If one gets very low test scores relative to one's ability, when should he or she take it again?

A: In order to answer this question, an analysis of the reasons behind the poor test performance must be conducted. If the poor performance was due to lack of preparation then clearly one needs to take adequate time to be well prepared prior to taking the test again. If the reason was test anxiety or nervousness, it might be best to deal with those issues quickly and to retake the test as soon as possible. If the reason for poor test performance had to do with maturity or mental readiness, one might consider waiting a longer period of time before taking the test again. In some students, a great deal of maturation occurs between junior year and senior year. This maturation can manifest itself in an increased readiness to prepare for tests which can, in turn, result in higher scores.

Q: Should one take the ACT in addition to the SAT?

A: The ACT does have some distinct advantages over the SAT, making it an attractive alternative or addition to the SAT. In general, the ACT tends to have more reading, favoring those who are stronger in that area. In addition, the math tends to be more straightforward and less tricky. Quite intriguing is the fact that some schools accept ACT scores in lieu of both SAT and SAT Subject Tests! Preparation for the ACT is quite different from preparation for the SAT. Therefore, additional training may be necessary for a student to really take advantage of the differences between the two tests. One way to avoid this extra preparation is to take Chyten's ACT vs. SAT Comparison Test which is accompanied by a detailed Magnostic Report.

Q: Is the ACT easier than the SAT?

A: What is easier for one person may not be easier for another. A more relevant question might be: Is the ACT easier or better than the SAT for me?; The best way to determine this is to take Chyten's ACT vs. SAT Comparison Test to find out which test is better for you. Some students definitely do find the ACT to be easier than the SAT, while others find it equally or even more difficult. There are a few generalizations one can make in comparing the two tests. First, the ACT tends to be more straightforward and less cryptic than the SAT. Some students find this preferable and it may be the reason that the ACT seems to have a reputation as being somewhat easier than the SAT. ACT has a science reasoning section, in which students are called upon to interpret data, graphs and charts, in order to answer questions. Although no specific scientific knowledge is required, one must have the ability to reach logical scientific conclusions by interpreting and evaluating data. ACT grammar tends to be more reading based than is SAT grammar. The ACT reading section is, in many people's opinion, harder than the SAT's reading sections. Unlike questions on the SAT, ACT reading questions do not follow the order of the passage. ACT math is definitely more straightforward than SAT math.

Q: How many SAT Subject Tests do colleges require?

A: Many colleges do not require any SAT Subject Tests. Those that do, typically require two. Some require three. Others may suggest or require that you take specific SAT Subject Tests. It is best to check with target colleges to determine their specific SAT Subject Test requirements. You may also check with your Chyten College Counselor who has a comprehensive list of admission requirements for the most popular colleges. It should be noted that colleges that do not require SAT Subject Tests are generally willing to consider them in the application process. Submitting SAT Subject Test scores may even serve to elevate you over other admissions candidates.

Q: How many SAT Subjects Tests can/should one take in one sitting?

A: Students are allowed to take as many as three SAT Subject Tests on a given day, and in our opinion should always take three. With optional score reporting, students can pick and choose which scores are sent to colleges, so there is no downside and much potential upside to taking three tests in a sitting.

Q: Which colleges don't require standardized tests?

A: There are more than 700 colleges and universities that have a test optional policy. The list of these institutions is ever changing. You can find an up to date list at fairtest.org. There are also many publications that contain this information. However, even colleges that do not require standardized test scores will accept them. Therefore, high test scores can give an admissions candidate an advantage even at a school that does not require test score submission.

Q: When is the last time one can take the SAT to have the results in time for 1) early action 2) early decision?

A: Both early action and early decision do limit the number of test dates available to a student in his or her senior year. Although admissions deadlines vary slightly from college to college, in most cases, one can take advantage of both the October and the November test dates of senior year. In the case of the November test, a student will have to manually send the score report to early decision and/or early action colleges. This actually works to a student's advantage, since he/she can decide whether or not to send the scores. In fact, only in rare cases should a student use the College Boards™ complimentary reports offered with the SAT. Instead, each student should decide after seeing the scores, whether or not to release them.

Q: Do colleges really look at the SAT essay or at SAT Writing in general?

A: Each college and university is slightly different in how it views and uses the SAT Writing section. Some have fully integrated SAT Writing into their applicant selection process as part of the SAT. Others view the SAT Writing section as they would an SAT Subject Test. In other words, they view it as a separate and important piece of the admission puzzle. Some colleges surveyed indicated that they would use the SAT essay for one or more reasons. Some said they would use the SAT essay not only for admissions but for placement as well. Also, some colleges indicated that they will use the SAT essay as a spontaneous measure of students' writing ability and as an application essay verifier.

Q: How many practice tests should one take to be optimally prepared for the ACT or SAT on test day?

A: Practicing for major tests by taking real practice tests under real conditions gives a student immeasurable benefits. From dealing with the fatigue factor, to increasing familiarity with test rules, to getting the opportunity to see and experience real tests, to feeling the anxiety that naturally goes along with standardized testing, practice tests can be a powerful tool in building test-taking confidence and scores. Chyten recommends that all students take at least two real actual conditions practice tests with Magnostic report. Three to four practice tests is more optimal.

Q: What is the best thing to do from 48 hours prior to taking a big test up through the morning of the test?

A: Two nights before taking a big test is the most important time to get a good night's sleep. If one is so nervous that a good night's sleep is not possible, then it is a good idea to get some exercise that can then lead to a good night's sleep. Getting a good night's sleep the evening prior to a test is also important. On both evenings, students should use learned techniques and strategies on easy and medium level questions in order to increase confidence and improve memory of those techniques and strategies. The night of a big test, students should collect everything that they will need for the test: calculator (allowed on SAT and ACT) with fresh batteries, two sharpened #2 pencils with good erases, picture I.D., admission ticket, a snack (power bar or breakfast bar (for example) and a beverage.

The morning of a test is also very important. Being mentally prepared to work hard on 100 or more questions over an extended period of time is essential. One should review advice and materials given by one's SAT teacher or tutor. Practice on one or two easy or medium level questions to prime the pump. Going over a few previously solved hard questions is a good idea. Get to the test center early. When there, try to relax. Breathe slowly and deeply. Think about a quiet place, or a quiet moment. Stay focused on the task; don't allow yourself to become distracted by what is happening in and around the test center.

Reading and Study Skills

2011-09-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

Ask any teacher to name the biggest academic skill lacking from the majority of today’s students and their response will be a resounding lack of study skills!

Lack of intelligence is not the reason the majority of students struggle today, they struggle because they were not taught this valuable set of skills. The development of study skills enables students to learn, retain, and excel at homework, projects and tests, while making school more enjoyable.

Here are the most common elements contained in an excellent study skills repertoire.

Reading Skills – Strategies to capture and retain information in the most efficient manner. An optimal reading speed should fall in the zone of 400 to 800 words per minute.
Efficient note taking – The ability to organize and transcribe notes in such a fashion that re-writing of the notes is not required.
Listening – An essential skill for taking high quality notes.
Time management – Effective use of one’s time will be an asset the student carries for a lifetime. A study timetable is the first step in developing this skill.
Study Environment – Finding the best time of day and location to maximize a student’s studying efforts is another vital key in bigger picture.
Memory – Let’s face it, a good memory will go a long way in obtaining the grades a student desires.
Reading your Teacher – How well do you know your teacher? Visual, vocal and other queues are very important.
Organization – A system that enables the student to keep track of all the important dates, assignments and notes are key to being efficient.

How can parents help their children develop good study habits?

Plan and make study time a routine. A daily plan including time set aside for studying often results in less time studying than what is currently being spent on the task. Our human brain is wired to learn better, when information is broken up in to smaller chunks for shorter periods of time. By studying on a regular basis, as opposed to cramming it in all at once, we are more in line with this natural structure and will learn and retain information more effectively.

Help your student determine their best study environment. Some individuals are most alert and receptive to learning early in the morning, and some are night owls. Some students require complete silence to concentrate and some do better with music in the background; some like frequent breaks and some not so frequent. Help your student experiment to find out what works best for them. While experimenting with the environmental variables, it is always best to change one at a time. Changing more than one variable at a time will make it difficult to determine what change caused which result.

Studying is hard work and does not come naturally to most. Your praise and admiration will go a long way to encouraging your student to continue studying. You may even consider a contract with your student. For example, after a set number of study hours are completed, the student will be able to go to movie with their friends, your treat!

Study with your children. Make yourself not only available to answer questions or assist, but study yourself. Read up on a topic of interest, maybe a new hobby or a subject you always wanted to know more about. You will be amazed how much of a difference it will make when your child sees you studying with them. It will become a time you both look forward to each day!

Finally, consider enrolling your child in a formal reading and study skills course. This is where Chyten of Wake Forest can help. We offer our renowned RANDD Reading and Study Skills course in either a classroom or one on one environment. Our program is taught by experienced master degree tutors and guaranteed to make your child a better student. Call us today and let us help your child become the student you know they can be!

Back to School

2011-08-11T07:27:00.000-07:00

Summer vacations are coming to an end. Students will take their summer adventures and memories into their 2012 school year. Here are some tips for the start of the new academic year:

1. Encourage students to remember the best times of vacation by writing about them or creating a photo album for their school assignments. Seniors can write about their summer experience for their college application essays.

2. Urge students to take a well-balanced course load, one that has variety in subjects, as well as, some more challenging level classes. Students need to be exposed to many subject areas. i.e. Math, English, Sciences, Languages, Social Sciences, Arts, etc. A broad spectrum of subjects will not only enrich their understanding of how things work but also help them understand their own likes and dislikes, as well as their strengths and weaknesses

3. Encourage the student to take AP courses, as these can provide college credit and potential savings for you at the college level. If the student intends to take AP classes in the later years, make sure all pre-requisites are taken.

4. Make sure the new year starts with good organizational skills and the use of a good planner, binders, folders, etc.

5. Agree on the strategy to note homework, book reports, quizzes, tests or project deadlines in a different format on the planner. For example use color codes or icons (i.e. starts, circles, etc) to help students recognized that each type of assignment might require different preparation time commitments and can plan their study time and social activities appropriately.

6. Once they attend the first day of classes, discuss with them how each class will be graded. Have a clear understanding of the importance of daily homework required by some of the courses, how it will get done and a plan to turn assignments in on time.

7. Insure that students will keep a folder for finished assignments that need to be turned in. You do not want to have students get a bad grade because they did not turn in assignments on time.

8. If your student is struggling with a particular subject, ask for help from professionals like Chyten. Every child should have a chance to get a good report card.

Yes, it is time to buckle down and get back into the academic mode. We’d like to be your partner to help your student achieve his or her potential in school academics and to reach top scores in college entrance exams.

OMG... Another Test!

2011-07-11T07:48:00.001-07:00

Ever notice these days it seems that our kids are tested to the nth degree....?

End of Grade
End of Course
Midterms
Finals
AP tests
College Admissions
And so on......

In addition, everywhere you turn everything is ultra-competitive with students competing for admission into:

Private schools
Charter schools
Magnet schools
Colleges
Universities
And so on....

With all this pressure on today's youth, its no mystery why we're seeing more test anxiety.

So what can be done, absent the medication route? (which in my opinion should only be considered as a last resort). Lets first determine what test anxiety is. Test anxiety is actually a form of performance anxiety. This is what a performer feels as they audition for the lead role in a school play, the pressure the star quarterback feels during the "Big Game" or the feeling a singer has at their first solo, etc.. So, test anxiety is what is felt in anticipation of a stressful situation, in this case, a test!

Test anxiety IS real, not imagined, and its impact IS real. Anticipation causes the body to produce excess adrenaline which is a primitive response preparing the body for a dangerous situation. This "fight or flight" response the body experiences has keep us around, as a species, for thousands of years. Unfortunately, it is counterproductive in today's society; especially when it occurs during the 'big test'. Symptoms include sweating, heart pounding and nausea to name a few. The stronger the anxiety gets, the more the mind focuses on the bad things that can happen, leaving no room for thoughts of what the answers to the questions are. Once the test is completed, the student relaxes and later recalls all or most of the answers to the test that could not be recalled while in the heat of battle - the test.

Who is likely to experience test anxiety?

Primarily, students who are not prepared, or think they are not. A student may feel ill prepared for several reasons:

Have not properly studied
Does not possess a firm grasp of the material
Sleep deprived (does not get adequate sleep on a regular basis, and especially the day before the test)
Lack confidence on subject mater
Does not know test-taking strategies

So what can a student do?

Here are the top tips:

Preparation is key! Just going to class is not going to guarantee you good grades.
Learn what's on the test and study what you do not know.
Make sure class notes are organized and you have a clear study plan.
Ensure plenty of time to cover all the material anticipated to be on the test.
Use stress to remind you to study well in advance of your tests.
Cramming for the test the night before rarely works and usually adds to the anxiety.
Ensure you are well rested, not just the night before, but get adequate sleep on a regular basis.
Practice test taking will also go a long way to combat test anxiety.
Ask for help. Your teachers, school counselors or tutors are resources to talk to, especially if you experience test anxiety on a regular basis.
Accept mistakes as everyone makes mistakes. Those who can turn their mistakes into learning opportunities are those who will be successful at whatever they do. The key is to learn from them!
Read directions carefully and budget your time to allow a chance for every question.
If you go blank on a question, skip it and move on. Quite often, the answer will pop into your head later.
Focus your thoughts on something pleasant, take deep breaths, and exhale slowly.
If other students finish early, do not panic. There are no extra points for finishing first!
Take a study skills course. Many study skill courses will not only teach you how to take better notes, but how to develop test taking strategies, more efficient time management and improved study habits. The course will also improve your self-confidence!

Confidence in your own abilities is the single greatest tool in combating test anxiety! This comes after practicing the techniques above and achieving success. So smile, take a deep breath, relax and leave test anxiety in the rear view mirror..... who knows, you may become the next to score a perfect 2400 on your SAT

You, You, You, You … let’s talk about You!! An easy way to start your college admissions essay!

2011-06-06T13:09:00.000-07:00

A well done college admissions essay can breathe life into an application. Instead of simply remaining a collection of flat numbers, data, and statistics, you can, through your essay, transform yourself into a multi-dimensional applicant. A winning essay will illuminate who you are in the eyes of the reviewer and make their dreary day more interesting. If the essay is dull and listless, it stands to reason that you are, too! Be sure to use this opportunity to dazzle and shine through the stacks of similar applications.

Many students feel that writing the college essay is the most difficult of the college-admission tasks. You should know better. Just think, there is no in-depth research you must do. There are no books you must read. There are no hours of painstaking interviews. The college essay is your chance to write about quite possibly your favorite and definitely your most familiar subject – YOU. How many times does someone actually ask you to talk (or write) about yourself? How exciting! So, take advantage, take hold and let the words fly! Your essay can identify you as a person worthy of consideration and help the weary-eyed reviewers mark you down as one of the best possible candidates.

The college essay is not a project to be completed the day you submit your application. It should be worked, reworked and then reworked again. It is too important to trust to a first draft – or even a second draft. Like all pieces of great writing, revision is the most important component in the process.

This summer take advantage of the many free moments you are likely to have, whether you are at home, on vacation, or just on the go. Grab yourself a small notebook and start to make notes on the aspects of you that make you… you! Carry the “You” notebook everywhere you go. To the ball game, to the beach, anywhere and everywhere you are. Jot down little notes and facts about yourself whenever you have a spare minute or a thought pops into your head. Before you know it, the summer will be over, but you will have a little treasure chest of thought starters to draft your college essay. And you may not even have realized just how fascinating you really are!

Educational Summer Camps

2011-05-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

This is an interesting article discussing how summer academic camps can be an effective antidote to the summer learning loss phenomenon that has led to so many calls for year-round education.
Summer School and Summer Camp

Although we do have year round education here in Wake county North Carolina it is only for middle and elementary school. The year round calendar in Wake county does not include high school and appears to be more geared to accommodate the rapid population growth the area has experienced in the last few years.

What do you think? Do you agree or disagree students experience learning loss over the summer? Are year round schools an asset to our students or a hindrance?