It's that time of year again ... falling leaves and the SAT

By Edgar Sanchez
Teens in the Newsroom

E-Mail

Comments (0)

Text Size:

tool goes here

The beginning of fall reminds high school students that it's time for the SAT. But many incoming students and upperclassmen alike wonder what the SAT is and how it affects their education.

The SAT (formerly Scholastic Aptitude Test) was developed in 1901 as a way to determine intelligence without systematic bias, according to the College Board. "The SAT measures knowledge of subjects learned in the classroom, including reading, writing, and math, and how well you can apply that knowledge outside of the classroom," says the College Board Web site. Most colleges and universities accept the SAT as part of their admissions process. More than 2 million students take it every year.

"I think the SATs are important because they provide us with many opportunities to receive scholarships and college admissions," said Brenda Martinez, a junior at Modesto High School.

Seniors go though some die-hard stress around this time of year, balancing Advance Placement classes, college applications and SAT preparation.

"I just realized how important taking the SATs is, especially if I want to go to a four-year college, where they really take a look at my scores," said Vanessa Lara, a senior at Central Valley High School in Ceres.

There are many ways students can prepare for the SAT. The PSAT � or Preliminary SAT � is a great way to get a feel of what to expect from the SAT.

"I'm taking the PSAT in order to prepare myself for the SAT so I will score better," said Michael Roots, a junior at Johansen High. "The PSAT is set up like the SAT so it lets you get comfortable with the setting."

Experts recommended that you take the PSAT before taking the SAT. High school career counselors usually encourage high school students to take the PSAT during their freshman or sophomore years.

Another way you can study for the SAT is by buying the official SAT Study Guide from www.collegeboard.com for $21.99.

The iTunes Store also offers interactive games from Kaplan Test Prep and Admission. The games, at $4.99, include practice questions and vocabulary lists that are frequently tested on the SAT.

Students can register for the SAT online and check the registration deadlines by visiting www.collegeboard.

com or visiting your school's career center for more information. Here are dates for the SAT this school year: Nov. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, March 13, May 1 and June 5.

Edgar Sanchez is a junior at Johansen High School and a member of The Bee's Teens in the Newsroom journalism program.