Standardized Testing

The testing landscape is always shifting. Colleges refine, and even seismically shift, their testing policies from year-to-year. Most colleges require a host of very specific tests, some colleges are test optional, and some are test blind. Because each school and program is different, it is best to consult individual college websites when researching requirements.

The College Counseling office helps students research requirements, identify an appropriate testing plan, and understand how those scores will shape the college process. We are here to help you navigate every part of this process.The mechanics of standardized testing is managed by the PAS Academic Office. Mrs. Kaye Caplin, the Registrar and Director of Testing, facilitates student sign-ups and administers the SAT, ACT, APs. The Academic Office also helps organize rides to test sites off campus for the TOEFL.

The student is responsible for signing himself/herself up for each test and for sending test scores to colleges through collegeboard.org and/or http://www.actstudent.org.

Standardized Testing Schedule

Below is an overview of the standardized testing schedule followed by Portsmouth Abbey students. Unless otherwise noted, tests are administered at Portsmouth Abbey. Students should discuss a testing plan with the college counseling office before signing up to take the tests.

FOURTH FORM

October – PSAT (mandatory)

FIFTH FORM

October – PSAT (mandatory)
December – SAT (recommended)
December-ACT
April – ACT
May - SAT (recommended)
June – SAT (off campus and optional)
June – ACT (off campus and optional)
July-ACT (off campus and optional)
Aug-SAT (off campus and optional)

SIXTH FORM

September - ACT
October - SAT (to be discussed with college counselor)
October - ACT
November - SAT (optional)
December – SAT (optional)
December - ACT

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): non-native speakers of English should consult with their counselors about taking the TOEFL. We strongly encourage students to sit for the TOEFL during a vacation rather than missing school to take the test.

Differences between ACT & SAT

ACT SAT

Reading

Key Ideas and Details

Craft and Structure

Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

Command of Evidence

Words in Context

Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science

Math

Preparing for Higher Math:

Number and Quantity
Algebra
Functions
Geometry
Statistics and Probability

Integrating Essential Skills

Modeling

Heart of Algebra

Problem Solving and Data Analysis

Passport to Advanced Math

Additional Topics in Math

Science

Interpretation of Data

Scientific Investigation

Evaluation of Models, Inferences, and Experimental Results

Science content is not tested on the SAT, but the test does measure your ability to interpret charts, infographics, and data on scientific topics in other sections.

A Science Insight Score, based on these abilities, is provided.

English/Writing and Language

Production of Writing

Knowledge of Language

Conventions of English

Command of Evidence

Words in Context

Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science

Expression of Ideas

Essay

Optional final section, 40 minute testing time

Separate score, not included in composite score

Topic presents conversations around contemporary issues

Tests ability to argue a point of view in a clear way, using concrete examples

Optional final section

50 minute testing time

Separate score, not included in overall score

Topic comes from a 750-word passage to be read on test day

Tests reading, analysis, and writing skills

Test Prep

It is important to note that the best test prep is built on a foundation of serious scholarship. Learning is a life-long process—not just a sprint in the Fifth Form year.

Available research indicates that the most effective test prep is long term and is the natural outcome of a strong college preparatory curriculum. Furthermore, research also suggests that the critical reading score can only be increased through significant reading (read early, read carefully, and read often). While the math test was considered more “teachable” through targeted practice, the College Board’s new approach to testing has likely changed that fact. Now, all types of questions will be more interdisciplinary and less formulaic.

Test prep has been found to increase some, but not all, students’ scores; the average gain (around 70 points total across three tests) is comparable to the standard error of measurement (90 points across three tests); in addition, there is an expected gain from repeated testings. That said, some students do raise their scores significantly, and since it is not easy to determine which students will be helped by formal prep, students should consider dedicating some time to the project.

Students should start the test prep process sometime after the Fourth Form academic year. Often, students find school vacations the most accommodating for such work. It is best to consult with one’s college counselor to identify what prep plan is best to pursue.

Resources Available

Kahn Academy: Their mission is to provide a free world-class education for everyone. College Board brokered an exclusive contract with Khan Academy in preparation for the new SAT. Khan is THE resource for test prep--and, it's free.
Various books available (in the College Counseling Office)
Test prep companies and tutors: please note that Portsmouth Abbey is not recommending any of these companies; we are listing several of the better-known companies and tutors that some of our students have used in the past for your convenience. We welcome suggestions for other companies.

International Students

“International” may mean different things at different colleges, thus be sure to read the international section on each individual college’s website. Most schools will require proof of English fluency. All schools accept the TOEFL and some require it. Some schools will also accept:

Studying in an English medium school for a particular number of years
SAT critical reading scores of a certain score
An ‘A’ in your Portsmouth Abbey School English class

Bottom Line: Your son or daughter should carefully check each college’s website for its requirements and discuss those with his/her counselor. Please see the International Students page for more information.