While you’ve probably heard some buzz about changes to the ever so awful SAT exam by now, you probably don’t know what they are or why they’re happening. It is speculated that the new changes will make the test more “practical and fair,” as it is clear that wealthy teens have an edge over other demographics. In addition, the ACT is gaining more traction in the realm of college aptitude testing, a possible motivation for the changes. New president of the College Board, David Coleman, who is known for his study on critiques of the test, may be another driving force.
Journalists argue that SAT scores don’t just determine admission to college, but scholarship decisions, as well. Although lower-income college applicants are in greater need of scholarship aid, they have been historically less likely to obtain aid due to lower SAT scores. That being said, changes to the SAT are not really going to help high school students who have spent their childhood education barred from opportunities that wealthier students have – but it’s a good start.
Let’s breakdown the major changes:
1. The essay will no longer be mandatory.
The essay portion of the SAT will still be included in the exam as an “optional” portion.
2. Students must use evidence in their answers.
Before, all test takers had to do was fill in the multiple choice bubble. Now, students will have to support answers and cite passages from texts.
3. Vocabulary will focus on words students are actually likely to encounter.
No more “depreciatory” and “membranous” and instead words like “empirical” and synthesis”.
4. Students don’t need to know as much math.
Instead of a few questions on each algebra, geometry, etc., the new math section will feature fewer topics that will be tested thoroughly.
5. No calculators in certain sections of the math portion.
New no-calculator sections are designed to test understanding rather than typing speed.
6. Well-known documents will be used in the reading section.
When we took the exam, it was highly unlikely that you had ever seen the reading before. Now, the reading sections will feature something like the “Declaration of Independence”.
7. No more guessing.
If you got an answer wrong before, you were deducted 1/4th of a point, discouraging guessing. “Rights-only” scoring will now encourage students to answer everything.
8. Smaller scores.
No more 2400. 1600 will be the highest score.
9. Digital versions will be permitted.
No more No.2 pencils? The exam will now be offered in print and on screen.
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(Many thanks to TIME.com and CNN.com for their help with this article)