Preparing for the ACT and SAT

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Tests) and ACT (American College Testing) are routinely given to high school students to determine if they are ready for college. Most colleges and universities accept either exam, so it is up to the student to decide which exam is a better choice. The Diocese of Orlando prepares its students in their private schools in Polk County to take both of these standardized tests. As a parent, you can also take measures to assure your child’s scores match his or her ability.

• Choose the test that will suit your child: Looking into the future, where do you believe your child will attend college or a university? Does that university accept either score? If so, choose the standardized test you believe your child believes suits his or her needs. Students scoring higher on the ACT generally have good memories, read quickly, and process information rapidly. Students who score better on the SAT are usually strong readers with wide vocabularies and use test-taking strategies well.

• Practice: SAT and ACT practice exams can be accessed online or purchased from either company. Full SAT practice tests are available at Khan Academy free of charge. Other websites offer free ACT exams in part, and both the SAT and ACT websites show a series of questions similar to those your child will see on the tests. The more familiar your child is with the format and the material, the better the score.
• Online tutoring: Many companies offer free or reduced price resources for test preparation.
• Sign up for a prep class: Companies across the nation are willing to meet with a group of students to find the strengths and weaknesses of each student and work with that student to bring up base scores. These classes are similar to a regular class with homework, in-class practice sessions, and question and answer periods.
• Private tutors: If working with a group of students does not help your child, a private tutor may give the one-on-one guidance needed to understand the material. Private tutors create individualized lesson plans and work sessions that focus on your child’s weak points.

Once your child has taken the SAT or ACT, compare the scores. The high score for the SAT is 1600 while the maximum for the ACT is 36. Websites compare the two to let you know which score is superior. Contact the Diocese of Orlando at 407-246-4800 for SAT and ACT testing dates in their private schools in Polk County.