The SAT Program consists of the SAT and the SAT Subject Tests.

SAT:

The SAT measures the Writing, Critical Reading, and Mathematics reasoning abilities that are important to college success. Approximately 3 million students take the SAT each year. Because course and grading standards vary widely from school to school, scores on standardized tests help college compare students’ academic achievement.

Score scale: 200-800

Format: 3 hours and 45 minutes, including unscored 25-minute section.

Critical Reading (formerly known as Verbal): Two 25-minute sections, plus one 20-minute section

•   Emphasis on critical reading

•   Vocabulary tested in context of reading passages

•   Question types: sentence completions, extended reasoning, & literal comprehension

Mathematical: Two 25-minute sections, plus one 20-minute section

•   Emphasis on data interpretation and applied math questions

•   Calculator use permitted but not required

•   Ten questions require students to produce their own responses and grid them on the answer sheet.

•   Question types: regular multiple choice & grid-ins

Writing: 35-minute multiple choice section, plus one 25-minute essay section

•   Emphasis on identifying errors; improving sentences and paragraphs

•   Student-written essay to effectively communicate a viewpoint, define and support a position

•   Question types: multiple choice and essay sub score 

SAT Subject Tests

The Subject Tests measure students’ knowledge and skills in a particular subject and their ability to apply that knowledge (no student may take more than three tests on any date.)

Format of each test: 1 hour, multiple choice (except the Writing Test, which includes a 20-min. writing sample).

 PREPARATION:

• Students should:

• Take challenging courses

• Take the PSAT/NMSQT

• Read, read, read

• Work hard academically

• Read Taking the SAT I: Reasoning Test and Taking the SAT II: Subject Tests

•  Visit the SAT Prep Center at www.collegeboard.com

Source: The College Board Quick Reference Guide

 THE SAT ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY TEST (ELPT)

ELPT is intended for English-second language or limited-English proficiency students who have been in English-speaking classes for two or more years.

ELPT measures how well such students will function in a college course taught in English. The test measures both listening and reading skills. The listening portion is administered via audiocassette, the reading portion via printed test book.

Scores are of two types: proficiency scores for listening and reading and numerical scores on a continuous scale for listening, reading, and the test as a whole. The test is to be given in participating high schools twice a year on specified dates in November and January.

Register online at www.act.org and/or www.collegeboard.com.  VHHS School Code 012-768.