SANDRA BOCKRATH
BLUE OWL TUTORING
COLLEGE TEST PREP - THE PSAT, SAT, & ACT
Here is a little information about these tests and their websites for registration. You can find current test dates on the sites and if you have any questions regarding which test to take or a "test schedule" for your child please do not hesitate to ask. We can help you and your child develop a strategy for test preparation and scheduling.
The PSAT
The PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 are excellent ways to begin your preparation for the SAT. These tests give you a benchmark score for where you stand in 10th and 11th grade, and practicing for these exams helps students review crucial material for the SAT. As well, PSAT prep will help students work out issues with test taking skills, timing, and test anxiety. I have been tutoring the math section of the PSAT for over 19 years and I would recommend that sophomores consider prepping at least a month before taking the PSAT 10 and juniors please give yourself at least 6-8 weeks to practice for the PSAT/NMSQT. Becoming familiar with the PSAT format and math content will greatly increase your success on this test!
Please see the following link for all the information you need regarding these tests: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt-psat-10?navId=gh-pn
The SAT and SAT Math Subject Tests
There have been several changes to the SAT since I started tutoring for this test in 2002. The SAT was re-designed in 2005 (3 sections to include Writing and a max score of 2400), and the SAT went through another re-design in 2016 that brought the test back to 2 sections (Math and Reading Comprehension) with a max score of 1600. Changes are coming to the SAT in the SPRING SEMESTER of 2024. The test will move away from pencil and paper, and will be taken on a computer. It will be an adaptive test as well (score depends on progress throughout the test), though the math content should remain basically the same. Updates on the test will be provided here as we learn more about this new test structure and content!
Sandra's approach to test prep includes having my students take multiple practice exams to give them progress scores during their preparation, an extensive study guide of math concepts, flash card drills for formulas and definitions that they MUST KNOW for this test, and great advice on test taking skills as well as management of test anxiety and timing. My students "get to know" this test in a way that will make them feel comfortable and not be surprised by anything on test day. I do require that my students do at least 8-10 weeks of test prep for the SAT (8 one-hour sessions).
The SAT Math Subject tests are Math Level 1 or Math Level 2. If you are confused about which test to take, please give me a call to discuss! Please check that your colleges of choice do require these tests, as not all colleges and universities will require them.
Please see the College Board website for info and registration:
The book you need:
The ACT
The ACT mathematics test is a 60-question, 60-minute test designed to assess the mathematical skills students have acquired in courses taken up to the beginning of their senior year. The test is all multiple choice (just one math section on the test) and includes concepts from Pre-Algebra, Algebra I and II, Geometry, and Trigonometry. A calculator is allowed on this test and there is a great prep book available published by the writers of the test. I recommend that this test is taken near the end of junior year after completing Algebra 2 or Trigonometry. In preparation for The ACT, I have my students work through at least 5 practice exams (we review all the questions!) and we make a study guide tailored to each student that focuses on their weak subject areas. Test prep is also a minimum of 8-10 weeks.
Here is a link to the website for more information and registration:
The book you need: