SAT vs. ACT Real Truth

SAT vs. ACT Real Truth with Jean Burk

Podcast #48

Which test should your take, the SAT or the ACT? What is the real truth? Learn how to ace the SAT – since colleges are ranked nationally based upon the student’s SAT scores. 85% of colleges give money based on test on like the SAT … the only fair way a college can compare students is through the standardized test.

Show Notes: SAT vs. ACT: Real Truth

Recurring patterns
Follow the same patterns, rules, and profiles to make it standardized
Component that is common to everyone. Anyone can answer
Same grading system that applies to everyone

Biggest Myth about ACT –

ACT is knowledge based –not true
SAT is reasoning – not true

Difference and similarities

Both used for college entrance
Both used for college money
Every college takes either one
SAT – 3 hours opt. essay reading/writing/math in some form – geometry formulas not on ACT – ESSAY – analytical –given a high quality published piece of work, write an essay based on the given work.
ACT – 3.5 hours – reading – fewer citations – English – both test grammar, style and reading analysis – math basic, math, geometry – trig (no grid in boxes) – persuasive like (40 minutes) the old SAT – science section –don’t need to know anything about science – combo of reading and basic math
SAT scores are not averaged – ACT scores section is averaged
SAT –unlimited ACT only 12 times
Easy crossover of info – try them both
Free tests online and download SAT or ACT practice tests online
ACT – subtle changes …
1. Timing to essay 40
2. Added sub-scores –
SAT – August SAT
1. First time, based on bell curve your students can do better on the scoring
Disservice high schools are doing for their students
1. Don’t bother with the PSAT test – it is very important
2. Merit Scholarships
3. PSAT you must sign up in person
How can you SAT if not offered at your high school
1. collegeboard.org and put in your zip code
2. ACT.org