Embrace the Digital PSAT
By Allen Grabo
The College Board's shift to digital testing marks a significant evolution in the way standardized tests are administered and experienced. This move not only reflects technological advancement but also aims to create a more personalized and adaptive testing environment. Understanding this digital transition, especially the adaptive testing model of the digital SAT Suite, is crucial for students preparing for these exams.
Adaptive Testing Explained
The digital SAT Suite employs an adaptive testing model, which adjusts the difficulty of questions based on a student's performance. If a student answers initial questions correctly, subsequent questions may become more challenging, and vice versa. This approach is designed to more accurately gauge a student's true capabilities by tailoring the test to their individual performance level.
Format and Timing
The PSAT/NMSQT, with a total duration of 2 hours and 14 minutes, is comprised of two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section is designed to measure critical skills necessary for college and career readiness.
Reading and Writing Section
Duration: 64 minutes for 54 questions, roughly 1 minute and 11 seconds per question.
Content: Multiple-choice questions requiring comprehension, use of information from texts, and analysis of the craft and structure of texts. Passages cover literature, history/social studies, the humanities, and science.
Math Section
Duration: 70 minutes for 44 questions, allowing about 1 minute and 35 seconds per question.
Format: Divided into calculator and no-calculator segments, covering algebra, problem-solving and data analysis, advanced math, and elements of geometry and trigonometry.
Adaptive Testing: Reflects the Suite's adaptive model, with the difficulty level adjusting based on the student's performance.
Preparation Strategies for Success
Regular and Targeted Practice: Leveraging the College Board’s digital resources and personalized practice programs, such as those offered by Khan Academy, can significantly impact a student's readiness. These resources provide a targeted approach to strengthening areas of weakness.
Practice with the Bluebook App: The College Board’s Bluebook app simulates the digital test environment, including the use of an on-screen calculator and navigation between questions. Familiarity with this environment is key to a student's confidence and success on test day.
Develop Critical Reading and Writing Skills: Encouraging reading across a variety of disciplines and practicing writing for different purposes can enhance a student's ability to analyze texts and craft coherent arguments.
Math Skills Reinforcement:Identifying specific math topics for improvement and incorporating math practice into daily routines can help make complex concepts more relatable. Online resources offer personalized practice tailored to a student's needs.
Familiarization with the Testing Platform: Ensuring comfort with the digital format, including the use of tools and navigation between questions, is crucial. Students should also practice with the device they will use on test day to troubleshoot any technical issues.
Strategic Study Planning: Creating a balanced study plan that includes SAT preparation, academic commitments, and extracurricular activities can prevent burnout. Regular progress reviews and adjustments to the study plan can help maintain focus on areas requiring additional practice.
Supporting Your Child Beyond Academics
Staying informed about College Board updates, encouraging a healthy study-life balance, and providing reassurance and support are essential roles for parents and guardians in this journey. Reminding your child that preparation and effort are key to success can make a significant difference in their confidence and performance.
The digital transition of the SAT Suite represents a significant change in standardized testing. By understanding these changes and adopting targeted preparation strategies, students can navigate this new landscape with confidence and achieve their best performance.
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