May 2010

SAT Subject Tests:
FAQ and Testing Tips

Though they don’t receive the attention of the SAT and ACT, SAT Subject Tests are a major factor in admissions at many colleges and universities. We’ve compiled some of the most asked questions about the Subject Tests, as well as our favorite testing tips.

FAQ

Should I take the SAT Subject Tests?

Whether or not to take the SAT Subject Tests depends on the colleges that you are applying to. Many colleges and universities require students to take two or three SAT Subject Tests in addition to the SAT or ACT for admissions and placement purposes. It is best to check with each of the schools that you are interested in and get the most up-to-date requirements.

How many tests can I take in one day?

Students may take up to three SAT Subject Tests in one day. Students may not take the SAT and an SAT Subject Test in the same day.

What should I expect on the test?

• Each test is one-hour in length and contains all multiple-choice questions with the exception of Biology, Math, and the Language with Listening sections.

• The Biology Test contains 60 core multiple choice questions and 20 multiple choice questions in either ecological (E) or molecular (M) subject matter. Students have the choice of which 20 question section they would like to complete.

• The Math Tests require students to use a scientific or graphing calculator. The use of a graphing calculator is recommended. Math Level 1 is recommended for students who have completed three years of college-prep math, while Math Level 2 is geared toward students who have taken more than three years of college-prep math.

• The Language Tests with Listening require students to bring a CD player with headphones and include both reading and listening sections. The Language Tests with Listening are offered only in November and only at selected test centers.

Which test should I take?

Depending on your intended major or program of study, some colleges recommend taking specific subject tests. For example, some Pre-Med students may be asked to submit scores from a math and a science subject test. Other schools allow you to choose which subject you are tested in. If you have the choice, you should plan to take your Subject Tests when you feel you are at your top performance in that field. Typically, June is a good time to take a biology or history test, because you have just finished that course in school and all the material will be fresh. The language tests are designed for students who have studied at least two years of that language at a high school level.

Are there alternatives to the Subject Tests?

If the SAT and SAT Subject Tests are required, some schools may also accept the ACT with Writing as an alternative. Although which test you take depends on which test you are most comfortable with, you should also take into consideration which test you will have the most success with and the preferences of your school.

TIPS

Only take the test when you are ready. The SAT Subject Tests are a great way to show your expertise in a subject, but unless you feel confident in your ability and think you’ll do well on the test, it doesn’t make sense to take it. The best time to schedule an SAT Subject Test is near completion of the course in school that most correlates with the test.

Familiarize yourself with the test format and instructions. You’re under a considerable time constraint so spending a minute or two reading directions can take away valuable test time. Visit the College Board website for practice questions and to aquaint yourself with the directions for each test.

Answer easy questions first. If you find yourself struggling to answer a question, make note of it, and come back to it later if there is time. If you spend too long on one question, even if you get it right, you may be missing out on the opportunity to answer several other easier questions.

Use POE - Process of Elimination. Narrow down your answer choices by removing obviously wrong answers from contention. With the answers you have left, make an educated guess.

Omit questions when necessary. If you’re unable to make an educated guess, skip the question. You lose points on the SAT for wrong answers, but do not for omissions. And unlike the SAT reasoning test where you lose ¼ for incorrect answers, on the SAT Subject Tests you can lose between ¼ and ½ point depending on how many multiple choice answers have been provided.

For a complete list of the SAT Subject Tests, visit our Resource Room.

Thank You, Teachers!

May 4th was National Teacher Appreciation Day. We would like to thank all our tutors and teachers for their wonderful work. These talented individuals are the heart and soul of Summit. Thank you, and keep up the great work!

Summit Lunch and Learn

On April 1st, Summit hosted our annual Lunch and Learn for Educational Consultants and Guidance and College Counselors. Marty O'Connell, Executive Director for Colleges That Change Lives, was our guest speaker. Marty delivered a passionate and informative lecture on the importance of finding the best fit in a college, and received rave reviews from our guests.

Our thanks to Marty and to the Wellesley College Club for providing a delicious meal.

Don't miss our next event! Sign up for our mailing list in the box at the left of your screen to be notified of all upcoming events. We host a variety of events across New England for educational professionals, students, and families, and we'd love to see you there!

"Amy was great for verbal tutoring. She was really able to verbalize reasons for taking an approach to tackling a problem rather than just saying, 'this is the answer.' She could really explain the 'Why.'" -Rochelle B., Summit Parent

Get to Know Summit:
Sam Stoddard

Every month we shine the spotlight on one of our expert One-on-One, In-Home Tutors or Classroom Program Teachers. This month we spoke with Massachusetts area teacher, Sam Stoddard. Sam is one of our newer teachers, but he's already developed a fan base. Students call him "funny and patient," and "awesome!"

What do you do outside of Summit?

I am graduate student at the University of Massachusetts, working on my PhD in Political Science.

Which subjects do you teach?

I teach both SAT math and verbal.

What kind of teacher are you?

I work hard to keep my students engaged and having fun while we learn. Students who are motivated and interested in their work enjoy learning, even SAT material!

What was your favorite subject in school?

I have always enjoyed math. Every problem is like a puzzle, and it's up to you to read the clues and pick the right strategy.

Where did you go to college, and what did you study?

I earned my bachelor's degree from Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY; it's a great school and a great place to live. I majored in philosophy, because I knew I liked to think, but I didn’t know what about yet.  

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I have always wanted to go to Japan. It is a very different culture, and I like would like the chance to learn to speak a little Japanese. It’s a beautiful sounding language.

Why did you become a Summit teacher?

I honestly really like tests! I know it sounds crazy but once you become comfortable and know what to expect from the SAT material, anyone can enjoy the challenge presented by the test. 

What do you love most about teaching for Summit?

Working for Summit is great because we have great students.  Together we always manage to learn a lot and have a few laughs in the process.

What is your greatest Summit tutoring success story?

I had one student who scored a perfect 800 on her final math practice test, which was a wonderful accomplishment! Even more satisfying, though, is to see students who come in doubting their abilities, but end up gaining confidence and meeting their goals. 

What advice do you have for any families considering tutoring?

First of all, know what your commitment is. Improving your SAT score doesn’t happen overnight: it takes hard work and lots of practice. But also know that this isn’t something families need to approach on their own. Working with an experienced teacher really helps students to focus their studying and feel comfortable with the material.

What have you learned from your students?

I have learned that even I can make mistakes, but that the power of two minds combined can unravel even the most confusing problems.

Sam has helped countless students maximize their scoring potential, but he is only one of our expert teachers. Call us today at 1-800-MYTUTOR (800-698-8867) to speak with a Program Director to learn more about our Classroom Programs and One-on-One, In-Home Tutoring in your area.

Good Luck, Seniors!

From our family to yours, congratulations on your upcoming graduation, and best of luck in your future endeavors!

We'd love to know where you are heading this fall. If you have a moment, please let us know by emailing newsletter@mytutor.com. All respondents will have their names entered to win a $100 Visa gift card!

FREE Practice Tests

Summit Practice Tests offer students a great opportunity to take a standardized test under simulated proctored and timed conditions. These practice tests are a free service we offer as part of Summit's commitment to helping students maximize their test preparation. Students will receive a diagnostic analysis of their results in the mail.

Saturday, July 10, 2010
Tests Offered: PSAT, SAT, or ACT
Time: 9am-1pm
Locations: Brandeis University

Saturday, July 17, 2010
Tests Offered: SAT or ACT
Time: 9am-1pm
Locations: Brandeis University or Hingham High School

Space is limited, so make sure to register soon!

Call 1-800-MYTUTOR (800-698-8867) or click here to register.

SAT Word of the Month

degenerate: (v) to grow worse or weaker (degeneration n, degenerative adj)---Related Words: corrode, regress, deteriorate

May 2010, VOL. 8, ED. 5
http://www.mytutor.com

Questions, comments, suggestions? Email newsletter@mytutor.com.