The New Digital SAT !
Our experience with the SAT extends back more than 30 years. During that time the SAT has been revised at least four times. But this last change - moving to a completely digital, online adaptive format - is the most dramatic!
Despite this radical change in structure and presentation, the material tested has remained remarkably consistent. In fact, the most significant “changes” are actually a return to previously retired question types. So our goal remains the same: to help your child achieve an exceptional score or exceptional improvement.
On the SAT, we define this as a score of 700-800 on or an improvement of 100+ points on each section.
SAT TUTORING
About the Test
Digital SAT MATH
Excelling on SAT math is based on understanding the "math patterns" that repeatedly occur on the test. On the most challenging questions, students must know (at a glance) what the solution method will be - even before knowing precisely what the question is asking. Students are taught to recognize these repeated patterns and the most efficient solution method to use to solve each problem type.
Digital SAT Reading and Writing
There’s not much reading (and no writing) on the new digital SAT!
It could perhaps more accurately be called a test of “verbal reasoning” or “verbal analysis”.
Students read short paragraphs and answer a single question per paragraph. It’s no surprise most students find it easier than the dense multi-paragraph texts found on previous version of the test. And instead of writing, students are tested on their knowledge of grammar and punctuation on questions called, “Conventions of Standard English”.
Outline of Prep Program of Study
To achieve an exceptional score!
Plan for 2-4 months (8-16 weeks) of study
Primary Study Material
College Board material:
The “linear” (i.e., paper) version of the digital adaptive test.
The digital adaptive tests found in the College Board’s Bluebook app.
Third party resources:
Online platforms for practice questions and tests.
Step 1
2-4 Weeks
Content Mastery!
We start with and in-depth study of test content, primarily by working through the “linear” version of the online adaptive tests.
Step 2
2 - 4 Weeks
Performance training!
Students get ready for the test by working through digital adaptive tests in the College Board’s Bluebook app. They also work on questions from online practice platforms. During this period, they complete 2, 3 or all 4 of the tests in the Bluebook app.
Step 3
Accountability!
Progress and expected performance are benchmarked regularly on proctored digital exams. These tests are acquired from well vetted and trusted third-party providers.