By ARVELYS TORRELLAS
Staff Writer
A look at Scholastic Aptitude Test scores at Smith since 1993 shows a gentle roller-coaster ride. Scores at BLS averaged 860 in 1993, 880 in 1994 and 850 in 1995.
But since November 1995, average scores have risen 33 points, according to Sandy Schiffley, a guidance counselor.
Could it be because of the SAT Prep Class? Definitely!
The SAT Prep Class is taught by Nancy Massengale at 7:30 each weekday morning. The class is worth one-half credit and, if you pay close attention, it not only will help your SAT score but can also improve your grade-point average.
But it�s primary purpose is to help students improve their mathematical and verbal skills in preparation for the SAT, which should be first taken during one�s spring semester of his or her junior year.
In addition to this class, Massengale suggests several other ways students can improve their test-taking skills in their spare time:
Tip 1: Read! Spend at least one hour a week reading. It does not have to be school-related work. Read newspaper, magazines, novels, essays, poems. After each reading, write a synopsis of what you have read. This will improve your comprehension skills.
Tip 2: Pay attention to English vocabulary tests because many of the words will appear on the SAT.
Tip 3: Study decimal, fraction and percentage problems. Review basic geometry knowledge and graphic representation data.
Tip 4: For further information, locate literary classics, USA Today and the Princeton Review.
This prep class has the potential to teach Smith students strategies useful to overcome the challenges presented by taking the SAT. Signing up for the class is one of the best ways to improve your score and help you get accepted to college � and earn a scholarship.
Arvelys Torrellas is a junior at BLS.
� 1997 [email protected]
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