The ACT, and Redesigned PSAT & SAT
Continual Review + Integrated Geometry = Higher Exam Scores
Both Saxon & our new Shormann Interactive Math utilize John Saxon’s unique teaching methods of incremental lessons, continual review, and integrated geometry. These methods build long-term retention, increase recall speed, and, over time, develop fluency (speed and accuracy). Fluency improves the student’s ability to apply math in real-world situations like science and engineering, as well as standardized tests, which results in higher test scores.
Redesigned PSAT and SAT Exams (2015)
In 2015, the College Board released redesigned PSAT and SAT exams which require a deeper understanding of functions and equations that are lacking in Saxon Math. Therefore, Dr. Shormann published a new curriculum, Shormann Interactive Math, specifically designed to meet these new requirements. Including technology applications, computer math, and real world word problems, this 21st Century curriculum features expert video instruction, interactive homework, quizzes and exams that are auto-graded, video solutions, and Q&A email support with Dr. Shormann. Learn More: PSAT & SAT Concepts Not Taught in Saxon Math
Shormann Interactive Math Students
All the concepts required to excel on the ACT, and redesigned PSAT, SAT, are taught in Shormann Algebra 1 & 2. Each homework set has at least one practice problem from a PSAT, SAT, or ACT. By the end of Algebra 2, hundreds of practice problems have been completed. Therefore, Shormann Math students do not require as much preparation time.
To prepare for the ACT, PSAT, and SAT: Shormann Math Students
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Three to five weeks before the exam, use a test prep book and take the practice tests. For the PSAT & SAT, the prep book should have "Redesigned" on the cover or description and it should be published in 2015 or later.
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Practice tests should be timed to help students learn to pace themselves.
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Take multiple tests until you get a little higher than the desired score, several times. Do not take the same practice test more than once. The College Board has 4 free, full-length Practice Tests for the New SAT And most libraries have practice books.
Saxon Math Students
Saxon Algebra 1, 2, and Advanced Math were written over twenty years ago and do not teach all the required concepts for the redesigned PSAT and SAT. This does not mean Saxon Math is no longer recommended. However, additional time is required to prepare for these new exams using prep books like The College Board’s 10 Real SATs.
To prepare for the ACT, PSAT, and SAT: Saxon Math Students
- Complete Saxon Algebra 2 (2nd or 3rd edition) and the first 40 lessons of Advanced Math, 2nd Edition 6-8 Weeks before the exam
- Then, spend 6-8 weeks taking timed practice exams from a test prep book like Barron's. For PSAT & SAT, the prep book should have "Redesigned" on the cover or description and it should be published in 2015 or later.
- Do not take a practice test more than once.
- Most libraries have copies of practice books. The College Board has 4 free, full-length he College Board has 4 free, full-length Practice Tests for the New SAT A
ACT VS SAT: Which one should I take?
After completing Shormann Algebra 2, and before studying or preparing for the exam, take a practice SAT and a practice ACT exam at home. Select the test you score the highest and prepare for that exam using the guidelines above.
When should I take college entrance exams?
To become familiar with how the tests are administered, students should take the exams at least once, preferable twice, before 11th grade. Try to take all exams at the same location. A Christian or Private School is usually calmer, has fewer students, etc. To register for these exams, visit the collegeboard.org or act.org.
- 9th/10th Grade: Take the PSAT 8/9 or the PSAT 10. The primary goal of taking these exams so early, is to become familiar with the mechanics of taking the exam (like where is the bathroom, where do I sit, how do I bubble in the form, etc). Then, in 11th grade, when it really counts, the student can fully focus on the exam. Because the student will not be qualified for National Merit Scholar program until 11th Grade, I do not recommend spending time studying at this level. Just use it as a practice run.
- October of 11th Grade: If your student has successfully completed Algebra 2 & Geometry, take the PSAT. This is the only time your score is qualified for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Follow the prep guidelines above. If Algebra 2 and Geometry have not been completed, skip this exam and focus on catching up in math. Select Contact in the very top menu to schedule an appointment with a consultant.
- December of 11th Grade: If your student has successfully completed Algebra 2 & Geometry, take the SAT and/or the ACT. Follow the prep guidelines above. If Algebra 2 and Geometry have not been completed, skip this exam and focus on catching up in math. Select Contact in the very top menu to schedule an appointment with a consultant.
- Spring of 11th Grade: If your student has successfully completed Algebra 2 & Geometry, take the SAT and/or the ACT. Follow the prep guidelines above. If Algebra 2 and Geometry have not been completed, select Contact in the very top menu to schedule an appointment with a consultant.
- Fall of 12th Grade: If a better score is needed, the SAT and ACT can be taken again and the scores can be added to your admissions and scholarship applications.