Kamiak Career Center

PSAT

SAT vs ACT:

Which one should you take?  Most colleges accept scores from either.  Both exams measure your verbal and math abilities, but the ACT also tests you on the natural sciences, and it has a smaller math portion.  You can try taking practice tests of both to see which works better for you (on the web, see www.gocollege.com and click on "Test Yourself").  The SAT now has a required essay-writing component.  The ACT has an optional one; some colleges will require the results, so be sure to check with the schools where you're applying before deciding whether to take it.

Test dates and registration deadlines for SAT

Register for the SAT

*Kamiak is NOT a test center for SAT, and you DO NOT register at Kamiak for the SAT.  We only have registration materials*

Information about  the SAT

Check this out....SAT essays scored on quantity, MIT professor says...read it here!

What is a "good" SAT score?  What is the average SAT score for 2006?

     *Kamiak's SAT code number is 480758*

Test dates and registration deadlines for ACT

Register for the ACT

*Kamiak IS a test center for ACT, but you DO NOT register at Kamiak for the ACT.  We only have registration materials*

Questions about the writing section of the ACT? Click  here  for more information.

     *Kamiak's ACT code number is 159210*

The jury is still out on the difficulty and value of he SAT's new required timed essay, but it's generating plenty of student angst.  Testing guru and author Adam Robinson offers these tips for tackling the essay: 

• "No writer thinks good writing is accomplished in a timed, 25-minute chunk with no rewriting.  But it's beside the point whether this essay test is good or bad.  I tell parents and students:  'It's counterproductive to say it's lousy or it's not fair.  It's a given, so get over it!'" 

• The SAT essay is not testing you as a creative writer.  It's testing to see how well you can take up a new topic, organize your thoughts and write a persuasive draft under a tight deadline. 

• The essay is not just about a score; the actual piece of writing  will be seen by college-admissions departments.  Think of it like a yearbook photo:  Everyone will see it, so you want to look good.  It is cosmetic in the same way.

• Respond to the actual question.  (Sounds silly, but do it!) 

• Write long paragraphs to organize and structure your essay. 

• Write a persuasive essay using smart-sounding academic (historical, literary) examples.  This means avoiding current events or personal experiences that are not part of what you've studied.  Don't use a lot of first person.  Bottom line:  It's risky to be too creative. 

• Throw in a couple of impressive SAT vocabulary words, but don't go overboard. 

• State the obvious and restate it. 

Article taken from the Seattle Times "The College Guide 2005" and submitted by Kimberly Marlowe Hartnettt.

Practice SAT test from the test makers!

Great practice test from your local library - free timed tests offered!

Petersons - sample questions for all types of tests (ACT, SAT, SAT II, etc.)

The Princeton Review - click on "Raise Your Score" and select your test.

SAT Prep at area High Schools

Taming the SAT

Why take a free Kaplan practice SAT, PSAT, or ACT?  A practice test is one of the best ways to get ready for the real thing.  You will:  Know exactly what to expect on Test Day; get a complete analysis of your results; learn exclusive strategies to improve your score.  Parents are invited to a free College Admissions Workshop while students take the test!  Limited seats available--sign up today at 1-800-KAP-TEST or www.kaptest.com/college..

KAPLAN Test Prep and Admissions   Sign up for a Kaplan classroom course or private tutoring program to maximize your SAT or ACT score and get into the college of your choice.  Higher test scores guaranteed or your money back

Take a free Princeton Review practice SAT -   A practice test is one of the best ways to get ready for the real thing.  You will:  Know exactly what to expect on Test Day; get a complete analysis of your results; learn exclusive strategies to improve your score.  To sign up, click here