Homeschoolers Need To Know How to Take Standardized Tests

Study for and take the SAT or ACT Before we delve into the subject of taking the SAT let me insert some late breaking news.   I had not really paid much attention to this but starting in March 2005 there will be a new SAT. I will not go into all the details of what will be changing on the SAT’s but you can easily find out by searching the net.   What is important – is what I have been emphasizing in much of my e-book. This new SAT will require the student to write – you guessed it – an essay or two.   All of what I said above is now doubly important. You need not only know how to write essays when you are in college, but you need to know how to write essays before taking your SAT so you can get into college. Again, much of what I said above will help you with taking the SAT, i.e., practice all kinds of essays, brainstorm, and write with deadlines. I am sure there will be much out there to help you prepare for these new changes. Now back to my regular discourse… It is almost as if the standardized tests hold some kind of special power over homeschoolers, as there really is not a better way to directly compare the level of education from a homeschooled student to a public or privateschooled student. Do not let that bother you, as most colleges will respect your grades and achievements as a homeschooled student as much as the next person. Regardless, I am sure you have already heard various commentaries or opinions concerning the SAT. I have my own strong opinions on the test as well, however, it does not change the fact that many colleges are going to take a hard look at your score on a standardized test. A high score is no guarantee, but it helps. Similarly, a low score is not necessarily going to handcuff you, but it might not be easy to get around. Also, there are many scholarships that require certain scores on the SAT or ACT. Honestly, you could live a complete life without ever taking either of these tests, but things are probably going to be a lot easier if you’ve taken one of the tests and have done well it.