December 8, 2015
Dear Upper School Parents and Students,
Many of you have likely read about the planned changes to the SAT that go into effect this March, 2016 (changes were described in this letter sent in August). Mr. Leef and Mr. Lear are hosting a Practice SAT (PSAT) and Standardized Testing Information Session on December 15 to further discuss these changes with Form IV and Form V parents. We thought this was an appropriate time to reiterate our approach to both preparing students for standardized tests and informing them about the overall process.
We recommend that students begin to develop a standardized testing plan in consultation with their parents/guardians, teachers, and academic advisor during their sophomore year. The standardized tests a student chooses to take (SAT, Subject Tests [SAT II], ACT, AP) depend upon factors such as course of study, academic strengths, intended major in college, and prospective college application list. Most colleges recommend that students submit scores of at least two subject tests (many schools waive their subject test requirements if a student submits ACT scores). However, some colleges are “test optional” and do not require any subject tests. Since testing requirements may change annually and vary by college, students should visit the college's website to confirm its policy. For a complete listing of test optional schools, please visit www.fairtest.org.
In addition to the December 15 information session for Form IV and V parents, we also discuss standardized testing options and trends at various parent programs and provide our students with multiple opportunities to practice for standardized exams. Every October, Pingry proctors the PSAT for Forms IV and V (grades 10 and 11). Beginning in January, Form IV students are given complimentary access to online SAT and ACT test preparation through MethodTestPrep, www.methodtestprep.com, and are offered a chance to take the Practice ACT in April.
Regarding the SAT II Subject Tests, the College Board offers twenty Subject Tests across five general course areas: history, mathematics, science, English, and foreign languages. These SAT Subject Tests give students an opportunity to demonstrate their understanding and mastery of a particular subject. As part of the application process, some colleges and universities require students to submit multiple Subject Test scores as well as their transcripts and SAT/ACT scores.
Students should plan to prepare for Subject Tests outside of class, as some test content may not be covered by Pingry's curriculum. This additional practice will help students become familiar with the exam format and become more comfortable taking multiple-choice tests. Students should review the topics covered on each exam and take the practice tests made available online or in recommended Subject Test review books. Visit the College Counseling page for specific recommendations. It is the responsibility of the student to register for their desired exam(s).
Pingry acknowledges that standardized testing is a part of the high school experience and the college application process. However, it is important to note that teaching to a test is contrary to our school’s philosophy. We work to create an educational experience that is collaborative and encourages students to “think independently and produce work that reflects original insight” - goals that are not met by standardized testing. Preparing students for standardized testing should not overshadow other educational outcomes such as creativity, curiosity, intellectual growth, empathy, and risk taking.
We hope that you will review the aforementioned resources and reach out to us if you have any questions about your child’s standardized testing plan. We look forward to seeing our Form IV and V parents on December 15.
Yours in partnership,
Denise Brown-Allen, Ed.D.
Upper School Director
Tim Lear
Director of College Counseling
