By Algebra 1 Students
The next SAT is March 9, 2024. It is monumental in the USA because of the many changes this year.
It will be all digital.
Whoever heard of an SAT without #2 pencils!
Phenomenal!
Math and Reading will each be divided into two sections. The test is now “adaptive”. That is a HUGE change…..meaning the difficulty level of the second section will depend on how you do in the first section. If you do great in the first section, your next section will be harder. And you have a better chance to get a higher score. If you struggle and don’t do so well on part one, part two will adapt to your level and give you easier problems. Your total score will be lower.
The test will also be about an hour shorter than previously. The whole test wil be just a little over two hours. And, yes, you can use a calculator.
Students will get to use their own computers. If you don’t have one, there will be some available for use. Of course, you will be more comfortable using your own laptop.
You do not have the option of taking a paper and pencil test.
The Reading Passages will be shorter. The Math problems will be less wordy…..not as many word problems that require reading skills.
Here are our thoughts:
Student 1: “I think it is better because it is adaptive. It lets you work within your own skill level.”
Student 2: I think it is worse because it is adaptive. When it becomes adaptive, it ceases to become a useful measurement.”
Student 3: “I don’t think it’s good because how well you do on the first part determines your score….if you screw up you can’t get a really good score. It would penalize your score. The whole thing is about the score. Absolutely. It’s not trying to benefit you.”
Student 4: “It is also about how to take tests. People who are anxious are fed easier things. That’s not going to help them. If someone is bad at a game…….you don’t get an easier game. If you play soccer only with people worse than you, you never challenge yourself to get better.”
So…..what do you think about the changes? Will you be taking it in March? Are the changes for the better or for the worse?
Real Math In A Minute 