CHICAGO, IL (July 30, 2008) – This year’s senior high school class is the largest in history which means more graduates are competing for a limited number of college spots at their dream schools. SAT and ACT scores can be the deciding factor in admissions and Academic Approach®, a test prep tutoring and online test prep course company in Chicago, outlines the most important things to consider both in taking standardized tests and in entering a high school year.
One of the first steps is to take a diagnostic test, which can determine which test (SAT or ACT) is the most advantageous for a student’s test taking abilities. Although the SAT and ACT generally test the same skills, the reasoning required by each is slightly different and depending on the test taker, can be easier to comprehend.
Another important step is to look at a student’s educational and extracurricular activities and determine when to take the test(s). For Illinois seniors who haven’t started preparing, they may be too late to be fully prepared for the September 13 ACT testing date. However, there are more dates available, as deemed by the following schedule:
SAT
October 4 SAT and subject tests
November 1 SAT and subject tests
December 6 SAT and subject tests
January 24 SAT and subject tests
March 14 SAT ONLY
May 2 SAT and subject test
June 6 SAT and subject tests
ACT
September 13*
October 25
December 13
February 7**
April 4
June 13
Academic Approach notes a trend of students preparing for these tests earlier and earlier every year, and this schedule should be closely reviewed by every level of student, from Freshmen to Seniors.
Another key is for students to identify an appropriate team to support and guide their studying and preparation. Academic Approach provides individualized ACT and SAT test preparation and test prep tutoring services that elevate both the standardized test scores and the long-term academic performance of its students. Its philosophy is to “teach beyond the test,” which emphasizes not only learning the logic and substance behind the test to but also creating students who are stronger critical thinkers.
"Students who are taught tricks and tips about taking the tests ultimately are less successful than those who learn the skills, lessons and rationale behind the questions and answers on the tests,” said Matthew Pietrafetta, Founder and CEO of Academic Approach.
Pietrafetta also points out that Academic Approach encourages students to embrace learning, and understanding of the “why” behind many sample test questions, ultimately this thorough knowledge and enjoyment of learning is more crucial in a students’ success.
To learn more, visit www.academicapproach.com
About Academic Approach - Teaching Beyond the Test™
Academic Approach is dedicated to enriching the academic skills of students as they prepare for the rigors of standardized test taking and academic life beyond. With offices in Chicago, Boston, and New York City, their experienced educators assess the learning needs of students and devise a customized, flexible plan for helping students reach their potential. They educate through one-on-one instruction, online courses or a combination of both. They’re best known for “Teaching Beyond the Test™”. Visit www.academicapproach.com to learn more.
*Tests available only in the following states: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia.
** Due to the special requirements of legislation in effect in New York, a February 2009 test may not be scheduled in that state.