test prep
PSAT & SAT update
Q&A: The Redesigned PSAT and SAT
Mark your calendars: October 2015 will be here sooner than we realize, and that means a redesigned PSAT and
SAT. Yikes! But fear not, we’ve done the legwork to answer your questions so you and your teen won’t be blindsided
by the changes and be better equipped to tackle the tests with confidence and clarity. Check out this side-by-side
comparison of the current and improved tests.
by Jasmine York
Current PSAT and SAT
Time
Redesigned PSAT and SAT
2 hours, 45 mins. (PSAT)
2 hours, 45 mins. (SAT)
3 hours + optional 50 mins. for Essay (SAT)
60 - 240 (PSAT)
20 - 80 for Critical Reading
20 - 80 for Math
20 - 80 for Writing
(PSAT)
Some scores will be reported on the same
scale used for the SAT
600 - 2400 (SAT)
200 - 800 for Critical Reading
200 - 800 for Math
200 - 800 Writing
Scoring
2 hours, 10 mins. (PSAT)
400 - 1600 (SAT)
200 - 800 Evidenced-based Reading
and Writing
200 -800 Math
* 2 - 8 on three traits for Essay
* Results reported separately
The following represent both the PSAT and SAT:
Focus
Reading
A point for a correct answer, a
deduction for an incorrect answer
No penalty for wrong or unanswered
questions
Emphasis on reasoning skills
Emphasis on reasoning skills tailored to
college, career, readiness, and success
Critical Reading
Evidenced based Reading and Writing.
Vocabulary based on an extended context.
Writing
Emphasis on vocabulary in a limited
context.
Math
Algebra, Geometry, Statistics
Algebra, Geometry, Statistics
Essay
Required, 20 mins. to complete
Test writing skills
Optional, 50 mins. to complete
Test ability to use sources and analyze
prompt
As long as teens read, do well in their classes, and seek help in areas they are uncertain about,
they should be prepared to do well not only on these tests, but also in college and their careers.
“Every year, Juniors participate in PSAT testing and join the pool of entrants to the National Merit
Scholarship Competition. Students wishing to succeed would benefit from taking higher level courses
so as to grow their knowledge base and also to engage in tutoring outside of school in the subjects that
they may be weak in. For parents, a great resource is the College Board website. It provides helpful
college planning tools as well as SAT test dates, information on the SAT redesign, and practice materials.
Ask your school counselors about it or visit www.collegeboard.org and search under SAT and PSAT.”
- Lara Lauterbach, Secondary Guidance Counselor at Alabama Christian Academy
10
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