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Understanding the Gaokao and the SAT
Understanding the Gaokao and the SAT
Before diving into the math itself, let's understand each of these exams a little more.
Why Compare Them?
Why Compare Them?
Although both exams assess mathematics, they reveal very different ideas about what it means to be "college ready."
By comparing the types of problems, teaching styles, and expectations behind them, we can better understand how each system defines an "educated person".
The Gaokao (高考)
The Gaokao (高考)
The Gaokao ("National Higher Education Entrance Examination") is China's primary college admissions exam.
The Gaokao can vary across regions. For example, there are Beijing and Jiangsu exam test papers.
It is an extremely high stakes exam in China. For most students, Gaokao scores determine not just which university they can attend, but also influence their future career paths.
Students typically prepare for years in high school, often attending additional cram schools and tutoring alongside regular classes.
The math section is 120 minutes long, with multiple choice, fill in the blank, and essay-style questions.
The math section of the Gaokao tests a wide range of advanced topics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, probability, and sequences.
The SAT
The SAT
The SAT is a college admissions test used in the United States.
It is important, but not actually the major deciding factor in college admissions. Colleges also consider grades, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations. In fact, post COVID-19, there are many colleges that do not require standardized testing in their admissions process.
SAT preparation often includes independent study and test prep resources like Khan Academy.
The math section of the SAT focuses on algebra, basic geometry, statistics, and some elements of advanced math.
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