Mathematics
The SAT Math section covers topics that students learn in the middle school years all the way through eleventh grade. It also includes a few topics that students may not have seen in their school curriculum like probability and number theory. Although the SAT is no longer considered purely a test of aptitude, it still stretches a student’s ability to apply what he or she already knows to challenging, unfamiliar question types. The best way for students to prepare for this section is through a comprehensive topic-by-topic review. Beginning with arithmetic, moving on to algebra, geometry, and number theory, we prepare students for all question types on this section. Multiple practice test and timed review sessions ensure students master both accuracy and speed.
Critical Reading
The Critical Reading section features many different types of reading passages in addition to sentence completion questions. The sentence completion questions test two skills-vocabulary and word relationships. Some questions require students to know simple definitions, while others are testing a student’s ability to look for hints in the question to guide them to the right answer. Vocabulary is an essential component of the SAT, and we work with students on vocabulary expansion from day one. Through a method of cross-referencing, we maximize the likelihood that students will know every word on the SAT come test day.
In additional to vocabulary, the critical reading section tests a student’s comprehension of many types of reading passages. The topics of the SAT reading passages include science, cultural diversity, humanities, sociology, and prose. Passages come in long, short, and comparison formats. We work with students to anticipate the questions they will be asked so they can read with purpose and understanding. We have special techniques for inference questions, which many students find to be the most challenging.
Writing
The SAT Writing section challenges students to apply their knowledge of grammar mechanics, sentence structure, and fluidity. The majority of the questions allow students to correct an underlined portion of a sentence or phrase. The harder grammar section requires that students identify where in the sentence the grammar error occurs. Since grammar instruction varies widely across schools in the tri-state area, we review grammar starting with the basics. We do not allow students to choose answers that “sound right.” We encourage them to truly understand the reasoning behind each question, improving their accuracy and eliminating ambiguity.
The SAT Essay poses students with a short prompt (usually on a social issue) and asks students to argue a position. We help students prepare thoroughly for the essay by assigning weekly practice essays. We expose students to the different types of prompts they may encounter on the real test. From structure and word choice to content and thesis statement, we make sure all students can write a solid SAT essay no matter their writing background.