SATs Bring Dread for Students
By Erin Parker

As the year continues, sophomores and juniors alike prepare themselves for one of the most dreaded tests during high school: the SATs.
With ten sections and an essay to write, the SAT can be a very intimidating test. It is recommended that juniors begin to take it their junior year, but sophomores can take it if they want to be ahead or understand what the test is like.
One problem that many students may face is signing up for the tests. It may be hard to remember to sign up online at Collegeboard for a test taken outside of school, but if the deadline is missed, an unwanted late fee will be charged. That is why it is important to sign up early and set dates that are easy to remember.
It is also never too early to start studying for the SATs. A class is available in the mornings through Valley Christian High School, or you can choose to take a review class through SAT workshops. Some of the more popular options include Princeton Review, Kaplan, or a private tutor. No matter what method you choose to study, there is no need to think that this one test can ruin your whole life.
Remember, it may seem like the SAT is set out to fail you, but really it is just a test of skill. The essay will not be on something extremely specific that you have no idea about. Instead, it is a broad ranged question that you can write using your knowledge of literature, history, and current events. To give yourself some extra practice for the essay, try reading the summaries of novels you have already read before the test, or watch the news to be caught up on the latest issues.
The math portion now covers some concepts that are learned in Algebra II, so if you have not taken that class yet make sure that you become familiar with some concepts.
The SAT is not trying to test the amount of knowledge you have accumulated. It is testing your reasoning skills and abilities that you will have to use in college. Take your time and remember that going to college requires so much more than your SAT score. Just because you did not get a 2300 does not mean you won’t get into the school of your dreams. For more information or to register for the May 6 or June 3 SAT, visit www.collegeboard.com.