Is your high school student planning on attending college? If so, he will most likely need to take either the ACT or SAT test. And, while some colleges and universities have gone “test optional” in recent years, the truth is that a standardized test is still very important.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT is a comprehensive measurement of exactly what students have learned on a day-to-day basis throughout their high school careers. Colleges and universities in the US and abroad recognize this comprehensive test as the education industry “gold standard.” And, test scores are accepted by all four-year colleges and universities in the US, including the most highly selective ones. In fact, The ACT is the leading college admissions test in the United States, and 1.8 million students take it each year – more than any other admissions test.
When should a student take the ACT Test?
While most high school students take these exams during the spring of their junior year, taking the test in the fall can provide some enormous advantages.
First, with one score under the belt, students will have a clear idea of which areas need the most help. And, they can structure their test prep time accordingly throughout the year for a spring test re-take.
Next, the academic workload really ramps up in the junior year. Combine that with extra-curricular activities, community service, and possibly a part-time job, and high school students are really busy! An exceptional score early on can take one item off of an already massive “To Do List.”
Last, if the first test does not generate the scores that a student hopes for, there is always the ability to take the test again, without waiting until the senior year.
This fall, the ACT test is offered on three dates:
- September 8, 2018
- October 27, 2018
- December 8, 2018
The best way to prepare for the ACT test
The prospect of taking the ACT college-entrance exam causes anxiety for countless high school students (and their parents are often just as nervous!) Rather than stressing about the test, however, students should channel their energy into becoming as well prepared as possible. At Back to Basics, we advise students to begin preparation at least several months in advance of the exam date.
To prepare, students should review material already learned, fill in gaps in knowledge, and take multiple practice exams. Students should be familiar with the test inside and out-the content, timing, and strategies for answering.
If students are motivated and disciplined enough, they can prepare for the exams on their own using a test prep book or online course. If they need a more focused approach, regularly scheduled 1-on-1 sessions, with a professional tutor may be in order.
Preparation will help students to master timing, reduce anxiety and hone test-taking strategies so that on the day of the exam they will be less anxious, more familiar with the material covered, and better able to pace themselves.
You have 3 months over the summer to prepare for the ACT Test… now what?
At Back to Basics, our in-demand, experienced tutors will provide a completely customized approach focusing on the specific needs of each student. Students will build and strengthen their knowledge, reduce anxiety, and increase confidence.
In Wilmington, Nationwide Back to Basics offers two different 1-on-1 tutoring packages for the ACT test, customized and tailored to the needs of the student:
- 32-hour ACT Package: This package is suited for first-time test takers and will cover all exam sections. Students will receive a thorough review of test content, test-taking strategies and test timing for the exam. Students will receive prep materials as well as a fully administered and professionally scored practice test.
- 16-hour ACT Package: Students who have previously taken an ACT exam are eligible for this package, which is streamlined to focus on a particular section of the exam, versus all sections. Tutors will utilize students’ previous test results toward improving subject test results.
Duration of services will be determined by the package selected and backdated from the scheduled test date.
Additional Test Prep Services Available: Back to Basics also provides prep for SAT II subject tests, SAT Test, AP Exams, High School Entrance Exams, Praxis, GED, GRE, TOEFL and GMAT.
Call our office at 302-594-0754 for further details any of the tutoring services listed.
