Grockit SAT ACT Prep

Learn more about Grockit's SAT and ACT test preparation

College Posts

Advice for High Schoolers Contemplating AP Courses

By posted February 6, 2012

Advanced Placement classes sometimes seem like a daunting option to a high school student, but the advantages of taking AP coursework heavily outweigh the effort they entail.  AP classes are meant to give students a taste of college-level coursework and course style.  They tend to go at a faster pace, and cover material more thoroughly than a non-AP class.  For parents, I realize this alone makes AP coursework something you want for your child; they will learn more and have to work harder. For students, I realize this may not be enough to convince you.

The best reason for any high school student to take AP courses, and this assumes you will also take the corresponding AP exam, is that passing the exam results in college credits. Each college and university has different policies about accepting AP exams for credit, usually depending on your exam score. Generally speaking, each AP exam passed exempts you from one general education requirement at your future college.  Speaking from experience, I took six AP exams in high school, I passed all of them, and received 28 quarter-credits, which was the equivalent of seven classes. I passed through seven general education classes that otherwise would have taken almost two entire quarters to finish.

If you are thinking that taking seven extra classes in college is better than taking AP classes now, look at it this way: not taking those seven classes saved me well over $5,000 in tuition fees (based on University of California in-state fees in the 2008-2009 school year).  College graduation seems far away when you are still in high school, and you may not think the decisions you make now will have any effect on your life in four, five, or six years. Graduating from even the best colleges on time is difficult, and tuition fees rise every year; making smart decisions now, to make sure you graduate from college on time, is critical.

Grockit’s AP Exam Prep services will help you pass your AP US History and AP Calculus AB exams. Use test prep for all your AP subjects to make sure you understand exactly what the exam will ask of you.  Working hard in high school, and passing AP exams, will save you time and money later on.

Angela Ballard is a senior at UC Santa Barbara. She works at FindTheBest where you can compare anything from the best ski resorts to mountain bikes.

No Comments »

Unigo Expert Network: Experts Answering Your Questions

By posted December 13, 2011

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

SAT. ACT. Six letters that every high school student dreads. But in the ever-changing landscape of college admissions, are standardized test scores still important? The short answer: yes. This week, our experts weigh in on just how important those scores are in comparison to the rest of your application.

“How important are standardized test scores compared to other pieces of the application?” — Chris Kim, Portland, OR

A: Test Scores Are Just One Piece of the Application

Standardized test scores are one important piece of the application. As I tell my students, “I won’t lie to you, test scores are important but they are only one piece of the puzzle.” At many state universities a GPA and/or a test score are the only admission requirements but many are realizing that other factors are just as important.  At privates colleges all factors are taken into consideration. Test scores need to be taken in context.  How well you do on a test taken early on a Saturday morning should not be the only factor in your college admission.

Maureen Lawler — College Counselor – Bishop Kelley High

 

A: Scores Get You Into Dance, But Getting Asked to Dance…

Your concern about the significance of SAT/ACT scores is well placed. College views vary on their importance, however, test scores are typically ranked third behind grades and strength of curriculum. Not all colleges view scores in the same light. Some are test optional, others allow single score choice, and still others will super score (pull the highest sub scores from different tests). Most will accept either SAT or ACT. Check college websites and consult with your school counselor. Don’t lose site of the fact that while colleges value quantitative data, it is often the qualitative information that tips their decisions.

Read more »

1 Comment »

Tips to Keep in Mind When Studying for Finals

By posted December 1, 2011

At the College Resource Center, LLC we understand how stressful finals week can be.  With the hectic semester coming to a close, many college students find themselves cramming a semester’s worth of material into the night before their exam, writing last minute essays and completing lingering assignments.  Course work and outside commitments begin to accumulate during this time and often it seems nearly impossible to finish every tasks at hand.  This inevitably triggers stress and anxiety amongst college students.  The following are a few tips we share with our clients as finals week approaches.

  1. Start Early. Don’t wait until the night before to start studying for your final exams.  If you manage your time appropriately, you will be able to cover the necessary materials assigned to you for each class.  It is helpful if you study and keep up with your class work as the semester elapses.  Therefore, you will only need to review the materials at the semester’s close as oppose to cramming it all in.  We recommend students make a schedule, prioritizing what classes they need to study for the most as well as outlining the topics for each of those classes that will be covered on the exam.  This will ensure students divide their time fittingly between classes that are more demanding and classes that come easier to the student.  It also ensures students spend their time reviewing only the topics that will be included on the exam.
  2. Go to the library or book a study room. Find a quiet place to study, whether it be at the library or in a study room.  This will keep distractions to a minimum and allow students to direct their full attention to studying.  Often times studying in one’s dorm room can be disadvantageous because distractions such as roommates, televisions, etc. are present.  Also, studying at the library or in a study room gives students the opportunity to have more workspace.  Therefore, students can spread all the necessary materials right out in front of them.
  3. Form a study group. Often times it is more helpful than not to form a study group with fellow classmates.  In this way, students can motivate one another to get started and to continue studying until the exam.  Forming a study group gives students the opportunity to see a classmate’s perspective and insight on a subject.  This keeps students on their toes and allows them to grasp a better understanding of the material.  Study groups also promote the sharing of study materials so students can divide and conquer definitions, concepts and outlines, therefore helping one another prepare efficiently and effectively for the final exam.
  4. Go to your professor’s office hours. It is imperative students go to their professor’s office hours and ask questions that will clarify topics which are unclear to the student.  Many times after answering questions, professors will also offer feedback to students on their overall performance throughout the semester and will tell them what mark they must earn on the final to achieve a certain cumulative grade.  Visiting your professor during office hours demonstrates your commitment to his or her class and shows just how much you are trying.  This extra involvement could mean the difference between a 4.0 and a 3.7, as professors take these added efforts into account.
  5. Utilize the study materials you are given. Make sure to study the materials provided to you by your professor such as study guides, PowerPoints, class notes and previous tests.  It is very helpful to review previous tests and quizzes as many times professors will revisit this material on the final.
  6. Take breaks. There can be such a thing as too much studying.  It is important you take 10 to 15 minute breaks to clear your mind.  Check your facebook or twitter page, take a quick walk or chat with a roommate during this time.  If you are experiencing significant stress, opt to take a longer break and go to the gym.  Do some cardio to alleviate this tension and “get the juices flowing”.  Then resume studying.

Remember, all college students are in the same boat. Everyone is experiencing the stress and anxiety associated with finals week, though some more than others.  Just take a deep breath and follow some of the tips above to prepare yourself for final exams and to alleviate some stress.

About Smart Track™ Toolkit: The toolkit is a web based service that assists families with everything from admissions and test prep, to student athletics and financial aid. Our intuitive software and on-demand workshops are key components to making sure students find their top choice colleges, and families can afford to send them there.

About the author: Alecia Coleman is currently a senior at Bentley University.  She is majoring in Accountancy and minoring in Law.  She was recently a recipient of the MSCPA Women’s in Accounting Scholarship and intends to get her Master’s in Accountancy at Bentley University, as well.

Connect with us

http://www.facebook.com/smarttracktoolkit

http://twitter.com/uchoosecollege

No Comments »

Money Saving Tips for College Students

By posted November 25, 2011

Campus Activities: Campus activities like movie nights or math club usually mean free food.  Take advantage of these opportunities to be involved.  You may just make a new friend or two as well.

Buying Smart: Consider buying store brand items instead of name brand and think about buying in bulk at stores like BJ’s, Costco, and Sam’s Club.  Also, look for some second hand stores and don’t feel awkward shopping there, you are not alone!  You may be shocked by what they have and how much things cost.  For example – one of our students last year found a Coach purse for $40!

Get a Job: You may have been given the opportunity for work-study but even if you weren’t, you can still look for a part-time job on campus or close to campus.  Working while in college is highly recommended.  Not only is it a great resume builder and networking opportunity, but you can meet friends and make some money so you won’t be hassling mom or dad.  Some on-campus and work-study jobs may even let you do your homework or get studying done when you have down time.

Bank Accounts: There are a lot of different accounts out there and many banks have student checking accounts where there aren’t any fees or charges to keep a minimum balance.  We suggest that you find a bank that has a local branch for both you and your parents.  Your parents and you should each have a debit card and access to on-line management.  Setting up joint accounts with your parent(s) as the primary account holder will help them easily deposit money as necessary.  Link your checking and savings accounts to help with overdraft protection and to help you save money. Have your paychecks and all other funds directly-deposited into your savings, then transfer spending money to your checking account and try to spend only what you have in checking. This will help you save money now to fund future large purchases such as books, a computer, or maybe even a trip for Spring Break.

Credit Cards: Be aware of credit card hooks such as free prizes, a percent off today’s purchase for opening account, no interest for a certain number of months, etc.  A free T-shirt may sound great now, but not so much when compared to the amount of potential credit card debt you may incur and a mark on your credit report. You can also look into Credit Unions or AAA, but if you do decide to have a credit card, we suggest having only one if possible.  Be sure to minimize your credit card debt even after graduation; don’t forget about your student loans you will have to pay off.  Also, typically if you are under 21, you will need to show that you are able to make payments (meaning you have some sort of income) or you will need a cosigner in order to open a credit card account.  If you are under age 21 and have a card with a cosigner but want an increase in the credit limit, your cosigner must agree in writing to the increase.

Being money conscious from the start can seriously help you throughout college and you’ll be very thankful once you graduate.

Any additional tips to share?  Leave your comments.

About Smart Track™ Toolkit: The toolkit is a web based service that assists families with everything from admissions and test prep, to student athletics and financial aid. Our intuitive software and on-demand workshops are key components to making sure students find their top choice colleges, and families can afford to send them there.

About the author: Laura Guarino is the Student Services Coordinator with College Planning Strategies, LLC. Laura has a degree in Human Development from Boston College and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in School Guidance Counseling.  She is also enrolled in a certificate program in College Admissions Counseling.  Laura is at the forefront of the college admissions process for the families of CPS and The Smart Track™ Toolkit.

Connect with us

http://www.facebook.com/smarttracktoolkit

http://twitter.com/uchoosecollege

1 Comment »

6 Strategy Tips for ACT Science Data Analysis!

By posted November 8, 2011

Data Analysis comes up in two of the three ACT Science passage-types: Research Summaries and Data Representation. Data can be presented in tables, charts, graphs, etc. Use these strategic tips to achieve better scores on approximately 2/3 of your ACT Science questions!

Find out how you can track your progress across specific skills and target your efforts for ACT science on Grockit.

  1. Pause to read the labels. Lots of students ignore the labels and go straight to the questions – don’t! Mentally categorize each graph, chart and table. (EX: “This is a chart that shows the relationship between time and distance for various lightwaves.”) Do not just skip the statistics entirely and go straight to the question! While you may think this will save you time, it actually significantly decreases your accuracy. Data Analysis questions are like an open-book test. You wouldn’t skip an ACT Reading passage, so don’t skip the data. Make sure you read every tiny piece of writing on or near the data, including titles, the labels for the x and y-axes, column names, and even footnotes. Read more »

No Comments »

How to Get Better Scores on the SAT Essay

By posted October 31, 2011

One way to get better scores on the SAT Essay is to make your essay examples much more specific. Good logical reasoning can definitely help you get a better score, but if you can combine your cogent logic with concrete examples, you’ll be well on your way to a 12!

Create an “Example Chart” like the one pictured below, and add at least 3 to each category. Choose things that you are an expert in, not ones that necessarily sound the most scholarly. You should know enough about each example so that you could write a detailed paragraph describing them. If you feel like adding 4 or 5 to a certain category, rather than just 3, then go for it! Not everyone will have a lot of ideas for “Science” or “Videogames.” You can even make your own category.

Read more »

No Comments »

Why the PSAT Matters

By posted October 3, 2011

The standardized test that everyone seems to talk about when it comes to college admissions is the SAT.  It is common to take the SAT at the end of junior year or the beginning of senior year.  Therefore, many students decide to do their SAT test prep during their junior years, or perhaps over the summer before their senior years.  However, if you want to get into your dream college, ace the SAT, and maybe even win a scholarship, you might want to rethink that timeline and be sure not to overlook another important standardized test: the PSAT.

Find out how Grockit can help you prepare for the SAT today!

Why does the PSAT matter?  The PSAT (or Preliminary SAT) is typically taken during the fall of junior year.  One obvious reason to take the test is that it is great practice for the SAT.  It is made by the same company that creates the SAT, the College Board, and tests the same three subjects as the SAT: reading, math, and writing.  The types of questions and the directions are the same or similar to the SAT.  Besides the content itself, it is also helpful to experience sitting down for a two to three hour test with minimal breaks before the real thing.  When you receive your PSAT scores, you will also get an estimate of how you might do on each section on the SAT.  This is an invaluable tool for helping you decide where to focus your studies.

The other benefit of taking the PSAT is the opportunity to participate in the NMSC, or National Merit Scholarship Corporation, scholarship program.  If you score above a certain percentile on the test, you could become a National Merit Scholar.  Different schools offer different amounts of scholarship money to high-scoring students.  There are different levels that can be reached in this competition: Commended, Semifinalist, Finalist, and National Merit Scholar.  Even if you don’t advance very far in the competition, you may be offered outside scholarships for receiving this distinction.

What does this mean for your SAT prep plan?  For me, it meant doing my SAT review and practice early, the summer before the fall of my junior year when I knew I would take the PSAT, so that I would perform my best on it.  I decided to take my SAT around the same time since all of the preparation would be fresh in my mind.  If you decide to go this “early” route and are not happy with your SAT score, you still have lots of time to study more and take it again, and you’ll know that you prepared as well as you could for the PSAT.  The PSAT is a a valuable practice tool that many people don’t realize can result in interest and scholarships from colleges.  So don’t wait around until just before your senior year to study for the SAT and PSAT.  Get started early so you can make most of all the advantages the PSAT has to offer!

Get personalized tutoring in live online sessions with an experienced expert instructor on Grockit.

1 Comment »

SAT Practice: How to Find the Area of a Polygon on the SAT

By posted September 19, 2011

Polygons can be a confusing concept for SAT students with even a strong grasp of Geometry because they don’t appear as often as triangles, circles, and other geometric shapes. You’re likely to find a polygon question towards the end of a SAT Math section as it’s considered a more challenging concept. Let’s review a few basic properties and then learn how to calculate the area for one!

Find out how you can Collaborate with your peers to reinforce your knowledge and theirs on Grockit today!

A polygon is a many-sided closed figure whose sides are straight lines. A regular polygon has sides of equal length.

Every time you add a side to a polygon, you add 180 degrees to the sum of its interior angles. That is why a triangle has a sum of 180 (3 sides), a square has a sum of 360 (4 sides), and so on.

The area of a square is side x side. The area of a rectangle is length x width. But what about for shapes with more than 4 sides?

Read more »

1 Comment »

A Beginner’s Guide to Financial Aid Part II

By posted September 13, 2011

In the last blog entry, we covered some of the basics of the college financial aid system and how it is used to determine how much money you could receive. In case you have forgotten, the key formula is “COA – EFC = NEED”. COA in this case stands for “Cost Of Attendance” and is pretty straightforward (just add up the cost of everything for one year of college). What I would like to focus on in this entry is the EFC, which stands for “Expected Family Contribution”.

The first thing to do is clearly define what your EFC is. Most colleges and universities will define your EFC as “the minimum amount your family can afford to pay for one student for one year of college”. It is important to identify key components of this definition. “Minimum” implies that your EFC is a starting point and you may actually have to pay more than your EFC (depending on the college your student chooses.) Also notice the “one year of college” part. This is because you should file for financial aid every single year, which means that your EFC will likely be different every single year. The reason financial aid is filed for every year is because situations change. Jobs are gained or lost, benefits will start or stop. Even the number of students in your family attending college at the same time could change, and all of these things impact your EFC.

Now in terms of actually calculating your EFC, college and universities will use one or two methodologies (read: formulas.) The first is the Federal Methodology (FM). This is derived with a formula the Federal Government came up with and is calculated when you submit the FAFSA. Every college in the country that awards federal financial aid requires the submission of a FAFSA, which means that all of these colleges will see your FM EFC. Some colleges will go a step further and they will use their own formula to calculate your EFC. This is known as using an Institutional Methodology (IM). This can get complicated because different institutions can use different IM formulas. However the basic IM formula was created by CollegeBoard and is calculated when you submit your CSS/Profile.

Now that you know there are two different EFCs, it’s probably best to figure out what’s included in these formulas. Simply put, the FM and IM formulas use the following: parent income, parent assets, student income, and student assets. There is a handful of other information that could be used (ages of parents, ages of younger siblings, certain monthly expenses) but income/assets of parents/students are the big players.

Keep in mind that since we’re dealing with two different formulas, income/assets could be assessed differently. One example is your primary residence. Any equity in the primary home is considered an asset in the IM formula, but primary home equity is not part of the FM formula. If you happen to have more than one property though, equity in the additional properties is considered an asset in both the FM and IM formulas.

Things get more complicated when you delve into the nitty-gritty of each formula. If you’re concerned about your EFC and how you’re going to be able to afford to send your students to college, it is usually best to consult with a professional college advisor. Much like a CPA helps you with your taxes; College Advisors (the ones worth their salt) are well versed in EFC formulas and the many different avenues for paying college bills.

Once you finish your applications and the college gets your EFC, its time to create your financial aid award. In the next series entry we’ll discuss Awards and Appeals, something you may need to utilize depending on your EFC, your award, and any extenuating circumstances you think may be affecting your ability to pay for college.

About the author: Justin Munio is a Business Development Manager and Financial Aid Consultant with College Planning Strategies, LLC. With a degree in mathematics from SUNY Geneseo and 4 years working in the CPS Financial Aid Department, Justin is at the forefront of the financial aid process for the families of CPS and the Toolkit.

About Smart Track™ Toolkit: The toolkit is a web based service that assists families with everything from admissions and test prep, to student athletics and financial aid. Our intuitive software and on-demand workshops are key components to making sure students find their top choice colleges, and families can afford to send them there.

No Comments »

When are the 2012 SAT test dates?

By posted August 17, 2011

The SAT is offered 7 times a year. You should be familiar with the college application deadlines for the schools you will be applying to and decide which SAT test date to register for. Most students will take the SAT the spring of their junior year and some will take the test again, or the first time, the fall of their senior year. Make use of SAT test prep to help familiarize yourself with the SAT before test day by knowing the SAT test structure and content tested.

2012 SAT test dates:

Exam Date:          Register By:            Late Registration:

1/28/2012              12/30/2011                  1/11/2012

3/10/2012              02/10/2012                  2/22/2012

5/05/2012              4/06/2012                   4/18/2012

6/02/2012              5/08/2012                   5/16/2012

TBD                            TBD                            TBD

TBD                            TBD                            TBD

TBD                            TBD                            TBD

Check out this SAT Identifying Sentence Errors question. Good luck!

Register to take the SAT at collegeboard.org

2 Comments »

« Older Posts