Verbal SAT Preparation Services
For best results, I recommend eight- to ten consecutive lessons of either private or small group instruction. In this course, students prepare for the verbal portions of the SAT (Reading, Writing and Language, Optional Essay upon request). Students commonly take the SAT three times, with additional tutoring between tests. Many factors go into the score and there is a curve on the test, so multiple attempts can make a big difference overall.
Reading Test
Improve your scores through proven strategy and specific reading comprehension technique. Learn to map the passage, extracting key points throughout. Employ strategy to tackle various question types, one passage at a time, maintaining your focus throughout the 65-minute section.
Writing and Language Test
The key to success on this portion of the test is knowing what, in fact, you're being asked in the first place! You will learn how to categorize virtually every question type, applying a specific strategy for each. You'll recognize top grammar rules tested, confidently choosing the right answers accordingly. You'll learn invaluable editing skills you will use not only to achieve a higher score, but also to improve your own writing skills.
Materials Used
1) The College Board Official SAT Study Guide: Contains all "official" practice tests currently available. These tests are also available for free online via www.collegeboard.org, so if you prefer, you can access them there.
2) Google docs: You will have access to key google docs so you will stay up-to-date with proprietary information on skills and strategies as well as extra practice links.
3) Khan Academy: Additional practice, including full, timed practice tests, will be administered via Khan Academy, the organization that partnered with College Board on this latest SAT rendition. The program's features include customized practice, tracking, scoring, scheduling, tutorials, and a coaching feature, so that I can see how much time you actually spend practicing. What feels like an hour and what actually is an hour are sometimes two different things!
Verbal ACT Preparation Services
The ACT is a great alternative to the SAT, as scores are generally given equal consideration by colleges and universities. Although the questions are more straightforward than those of the SAT, the ACT is a very fast-paced test that covers vast territory in short time. A combination of stamina and skill are the keys to success on this five-section test.
English
You will learn to recognize skills tested on the exam, including punctuation, grammar, sentence structure, and organization. The right preparation makes all the difference on this portion, as it is a completely predictable test: there are always a set number of punctuation questions, problems dealing with redundancy, and so forth. Solid understanding of these skills is essential.
Reading
On the ACT, four lengthy passages are given; students are expected to answer ten questions per passage within thirty-five minutes. Timing and pacing skills are emphasized and refined. Reading skills are optimized based on your unique learning style. While some students can easily skim, others must read carefully; strategies for maximizing the score vary accordingly.
Writing (Essay)
Although the essay is considered "optional" on the ACT, most colleges require "ACT with Writing". The ACT has recently made significant changes to this portion of the test, now requiring students to not only analyze three perspectives on a given topic, but also to persuade the reader of his/her own position. My suggested outline allows students to prepare in advance, and to make sure no stone is left unturned in completing the requisite tasks. In addition, we'll explore high-scoring examples and refine general essay-writing skills.
Materials Used
1) The Real ACT Prep Guide
2) Google docs: You'll be added to key google docs so you can stay up-to-date with proprietary information on ACT skills and strategies.