Test Preparation for the SAT
The SAT has two major divisions. Each is graded on a scale of 200 to 800.
- Reading, Writing & Language
There is an optional essay that receives three sub-scores, each of which is graded on a scale of 1–4, by two readers, for a total score of 6–24. The total essay score is separate from the other scores.
At CROWNE, students may prepare for one or more parts of the test or the whole test.
The SAT Reading Test has four single passages and one set of paired passages. Each passage or pair is 500 – 750 words in length and is be accompanied by 10-11 questions. There are 52 questions and students have 65 minutes to finish. There are four distinct groupings (and several sub-groupings) of question types:
Evidence (Command of Evidence)
Graphics (Graphical Analysis)
Analysis (Specific Content Analysis)
Vocabulary (Vocabulary in Context)
SAT Writing and Language
The SAT Writing and Language Test requires students to play the role of editor, not a writer.
As such, students must:
- Select the most concise and/or accurate phrase or sentence to express a thought or opinion
- Select the best description of a person, situation, or action
- Reorganize, replace or remove words in a sentence, or sentences within a paragraph
- Identify appropriate conjunctions and logical connections between sentences and paragraphs
- Identify agreeing parts of sentences—tense, mood, amount, and modifiers
- Identify incorrect or unnecessary words, sentences, or clauses
- Identify correct punctuation, including possessive cases, and overall passage structure
The SAT Math Test incorporates a large variety of question types and subjects. While most math falls into the algebra and data categories, many questions involve real life situations that require a thorough understanding of the concept being tested and the equation that best expresses the solution. “Passport to Advanced Math” and “Additional Topics in Math” questions require familiarity with geometry, trigonometry, and logarithms.
The SAT Essay requires students to read a lengthy source text and evaluate the author’s style, structure and success in creating a convincing argument. Students are graded by two readers, each awarding three sub-scores of 1-4 that combine to give a student a total score ranging from 6-24 points. The sub-scores are in reading, writing, and analysis.
For students whose basic skills as tested by the SAT are strong, 24 hours is usually sufficient. Students who require remediation in any given area or who wish to strengthen math, reading, grammar or writing skills, we recommend at least 36 hours of tutoring. For English language learners, more may be required. Please speak to our academic director who can help you set up a personalized plan for SAT preparation.