SAT and ACT Scores – Comparing Apples to Apples
October 10, 2011
At Top-Tier Tutoring, we always tell our new standardized test prep clients that they should take both the SAT and ACT once, and then retake the one on which they scored better. They study primarily for the SAT, take it, study for the ACT and then take that exam. Then they get their scores for both and ask us to interpret them – how to tell which one they did better on other than their gut feelings about which test they preferred.
At first glance, this seems to be a tricky proposition. The SAT is based on a 2400 point scale, with 800 being the perfect score in each of the 3 sections (math, critical reading, writing). The ACT, on the other hand, gives a composite score based on a 36 point scale, with 36 being the perfect score in each of the 5 sections (English, math, reading, science, writing). So, unless you receive a 2400 or a 36, how do you translate the scores?
The answer is simple: a Concordance Table. OK, “concordance” is an SAT word, meaning “similarity or agreement between two or more things” (thank you, Encarta Dictionary). If you google “concordance table” you will see numerous results. The ACT has a handy one here.
So, for example, assume that Jane (not her real name) took both the SAT and ACT and scored 2080 and 28, respectively. According to the Concordance Table, her ACT composite score is the equivalent of 1860-1910 on the SAT. Therefore, she performed better on the SAT and, if she wants, will retake only that exam.
As another example, Jack (not his real name) also took both the SAT and ACT, scoring 1520 and 24, respectively. The Concordance Table shows that his ACT composite score is equal to approximately 1620-1670 on the SAT. He, clearly, scored higher on the ACT and will retake only that test.
We hope this post helps you to compare “apples to apples” between your SAT and ACT scores (and taught you a new vocab word in the process)!
Standardized Test Guarantees
August 11, 2010
Recently, the Princeton Review backed away from its claim that by taking its “Ultimate Classroom” course, students can boost their SAT scores by 255 points. This change came as a result of a challenge brought to the guarantee by Kaplan Inc.
While this seems to be more of a political or business decision, the issue of a guarantee of increase in scores is very touchy. According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, on average, SAT test courses improve about 30 points after taking a test preparation course. While this increase may seem low, a 30-point improvement can make a significant difference if your scores are just on the “cusp.” Or, that increase could mean that you now qualify for a scholarship.
At Top-Tier Tutoring, our students receive one-on-one instruction with the same tutor for the entire tutoring package. Our tutors tailor their instruction to your specific needs. As a result, your individualized attention results in much more accountability for your doing your homework and understanding the material. (For more information about the benefits of one-on-one tutoring, check out our podcast on this topic.)
We have had students who have studied with us improve their SAT scores 50 points, 70 points, and much, much higher. Our students’ scores improve because they are comfortable with the tests, understand the scoring system and have a solid knowledge base.
However, we have never guaranteed a specific point increase. When prospective clients call and ask that question, we answer that their improvement depends upon their dedication to working with the tutor and putting in the hard effort required. We guarantee that for students who take a package of 10 hours or more, if the student attends every session, completes all assignments, and takes all practice exams without improving, we will offer 8 additional hours of tutoring at no extra cost. We believe this guarantee is appropriate and not misleading – and provides peace of mind that your investment of time and money is well-worth the results.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
The Benefits of Private Tutoring
June 16, 2010
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In this podcast, Mike Rivera, co-founder, tutor and college counselor with Top-Tier Tutoring, discusses the benefits that can be achieved in one-on-one tutoring.
During the podcast, Mike gives a historical overview of private tutoring as mainly for the affluent members of society. In today’s world, many students are taking advantage of private tutoring as a way to either help understand topics taught in class, or to stimulate academic challenges, or to help achieving students score even higher on standardized tests ranging from the SAT to the ACT to AP exams. Having a tutor is seen as a cool, status symbol.
Listen as Mike offers insightful questions that you should ask any prospective tutor before making a hiring decision. One of the most important questions to ask is the teaching methodology of the tutor, or the tutoring center, you are considering. Specifically, you will want to know if the private tutoring is curriculum-based or is constructed around your child’s exact needs. Simply because tutoring is going to be one-on-one does not necessarily mean that the sessions will be tailored to the student’s needs.
Mike provides you with great information when you are starting to search for a tutor. The benefits of private, non-curriculum based tutoring, such as offered at Top-Tier Tutoring, are well documented and, in many cases, dramatic. Of course, the tutor cannot do the student’s homework, but working together as a team, superior results can be achieved.
As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
