Are the changes to the SAT good or bad? (Editorial)
CHS is bringing a new SAT for the students to take in 2016. Some say it could be harder, or it could be easier.
SATs are what colleges look at; this could be unfair for the ones who already got their final grade on the SAT. There are a few things that are changing that probably should be recognized for the current freshmen and sophomores who will take this new SAT.
According to The Cleburne Times, “Beginning in 2016, the exam will focus on using relevant vocabulary ‘words that students will use consistently in college and beyond,’ the math section will draw from fewer topics, the once mandatory essay will be optional and points will not be deducted for incorrect answers.”
The new format to the vocabulary portion of the SAT may calm students depending on how big their vocabulary is and how far it expands. It brings more recent words to memory, thus simplifying the test.
It could also be harder, though.
The math in SATs can be very daunting in the test. It may have been awhile since you learned those concepts and since they are expecting less use of the calculator, students may feel even less at ease.
The points are getting reduced back to 1600 points. The essay is optional, for your own use and confidence. Answers will not be marked off for being wrong in the SATs coming in 2016.
Another change in the SAT is adding history and science in the exam. These subjects will appear in the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section in which students will have to analyze the material.
The change is completely unfair for students who struggled to get into colleges with their poor SAT scores. Students who are able to start taking the new SAT in 2016 are going to be in for a surprise. There’s no way to study, but it’s known as “easier” for students to take.
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Amanda is a staff writer for the second time this year, this time heading our new Student Life section. She loves the when the moon comes out but she...
Emma Hotra-Schubert • Mar 31, 2014 at 9:39 am
While I wish that the test had been easier when I took it, I think this will be a good change for future test takers. College applications are stressful enough without a daunting SAT.
Christian Pavlovich • Mar 23, 2014 at 5:33 pm
I’m glad I don’t have to take that again!