The SAT & ACT By: Doug Calland Submitted: 9/13/2006
Some students (and parents) have asked what the difference is in the ACT & the SAT.
The ACT tests for what students know, therefore a curriculum based test.
The SAT tests for more on how a student can take prior knowledge to solve problems. It tests your stratagies more than your knowledge.
Both tests have validity with colleges and it is alright for students to take both. Students also need to be aware of what the colleges they may enter require for tests for admissions.
More Information on the ACT/SAT
SAT AND ACT INFORMATION The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and the American College Testing program (ACT) are highly regarded and recognized standardized tests used for college admissions and placement decisions. SAT scores help estimate how well students are likely to perform in college based on their verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities. ACT scores also help estimate potential for academic success; however, ACT scores are based on acquired knowledge or achievement in English, math and science.
SAT Score
Each correct answer, student earns one point. For wrong answer to a multiple choice question, the student loses one-quarter (1/4) point. No points are deducted for wrong answer to math question that have no answer choices(student-produced response questions), or for unanswered questions
ACT Score
Your score will be based on the number of questions you answer correctly; there is no penalty for guessing Answer every question, even if you have to guess
WHAT'S NEW
ACT and SAT will begin adding a writing sample to their tests in future years. SAT will add the writing section in 2006. The impact on students is that most will be advised to take the writing portion in case their final college choice requires that section
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE
The ACT measures achievement, while the SAT measures aptitude. If a student does not score as well as he or she would like on one , then that student may want to try another test.
The SAT Reasoning Test has three sections: verbal, math, and essay.
