A degree in Nursing Education will teach you the necessary leadership skills you need to advance in your career. With a Masters degree in Nursing Education graduates may enter careers in research, academics or continue to advance in clinical nursing.
Summary of the Nursing Education Degree Program
In a Masters Degree program for Nursing Education you will acquire skills in research, problem solving and management procedures. You will be an institutional leader making significant contributions in advancing awareness of nursing principles, practices and new technology.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
A Masters degree in Nursing Education will prepare you to make nursing assessments, communicate the needs of patients, integrate information with new technology and be involved in nursing research. You will become a highly skilled practitioner in the policies, procedures and principles of nursing. You will develop leadership skills that will help you advance your career and directly report to top management.
Typical Coursework
Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in a nursing education degree program include:
* Theories of Nursing Education
* Writing for Publication
* Legal and Ethical Issues in Nursing
* Patient Education and Counseling
Career Related Information
Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter
In choosing to earn a Masters degree in nursing education you will be entering into a highly demanding career. A strong sense of integrity, honesty and loyalty will be essential in maintaining an ethical research and teaching environment.
Occupational Outlook For Business Management Including Salary Information
According to, swz.salary.com, the national annual median wage for a MSN varies from $73,330 to $86,372. Your salary will depend on the size of the institution and region in which you are employed. There is great demand for highly-skilled nurses. According to bls.gov the need for skilled nurses is not matching the national need.
http://educhoices.org/articles/BSN_to_MSN_Degree_Review_-_Master_Degree_Information.html
Friday, October 12, 2007
Business Administration Master's Degree (MBA)
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree opens a new realm of business and management possibilities to graduates. Read the following article to see why the MBA is the most sought after degree in the world.
Degree Description
A Master of Business Administration degree allows individuals with Bachelor's degrees to promote their business careers. Graduates with MBA degrees are seen to have great understanding of business principals and strategies along with the needed training and skills to apply this knowledge in the real world. Because of this combination of knowledge and skill, businesses look towards MBA graduates to lead, administrate and manage their companies successfully.
Degree Courses
While different MBA programs may emphasize certain skills, a MBA student can expect to strengthen the following skills:
* Economic
* Marketing
* Accounting
* IT Management
* Finance
* Business Law
* Communication
* Human Resource Management
* Leadership
Benefits of a MBA
With an MBA degree, graduates will have the skills and qualifications for mid-to high-level management position right out of school. In 2005 new MBA graduates were expected to earn an average of $88k annually with signing bonuses of around $17k, according to Wikipedia (wikipedia.com).
http://educhoices.org/articles/Business_Administration_Master%27s_Degree_%28MBA%29.html
Degree Description
A Master of Business Administration degree allows individuals with Bachelor's degrees to promote their business careers. Graduates with MBA degrees are seen to have great understanding of business principals and strategies along with the needed training and skills to apply this knowledge in the real world. Because of this combination of knowledge and skill, businesses look towards MBA graduates to lead, administrate and manage their companies successfully.
Degree Courses
While different MBA programs may emphasize certain skills, a MBA student can expect to strengthen the following skills:
* Economic
* Marketing
* Accounting
* IT Management
* Finance
* Business Law
* Communication
* Human Resource Management
* Leadership
Benefits of a MBA
With an MBA degree, graduates will have the skills and qualifications for mid-to high-level management position right out of school. In 2005 new MBA graduates were expected to earn an average of $88k annually with signing bonuses of around $17k, according to Wikipedia (wikipedia.com).
http://educhoices.org/articles/Business_Administration_Master%27s_Degree_%28MBA%29.html
Business Management Degree Information - Master Degree
A degree in Business Management will teach you the necessary leadership skills you need to advance in your career. With a Masters degree in Business Management graduates may enter careers in finance, research and consulting in various high profile areas of business.
Summary of the an Business Management Degree Program
In a Masters Degree program for Business Management you will acquire skills in research, problem solving and management procedures. You will be an industry leader making significant contributions in advancing awareness of business practices and technology.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
A Masters degree in Business Management is to prepare students for entrepreneurship, human resources and technology management. You will become a highly skilled practitioner in the policies, procedures and principles of Business Management. You will develop leadership skills becoming counsel to your peers in top management.
Typical Coursework
Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in Business Management degree programs include:
* Database Management Systems
* International Law
* Taxation Law
* Management Accounting
Career Related Information
Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter
In choosing to earn a Masters degree in Business Management you will be entering into a highly demanding career. A strong career path in business will be founded in both the public and private sectors.
Occupational Outlook For Business Management Including Salary Information
According to, swz.salary.com, the national annual median wage for a Business Manager varies from $77,779 to $136,925. Your salary will depend on the size of the company and region in which you are employed. There is a moderate demand for highly-skilled business Managers experts. According to bls.gov business managers are employed at a variety of Fortune 500 companies. These positions are high-level making competition for employment steep.
http://educhoices.org/articles/Business_Management_Degree_Information_-_Master_Degree.html
Summary of the an Business Management Degree Program
In a Masters Degree program for Business Management you will acquire skills in research, problem solving and management procedures. You will be an industry leader making significant contributions in advancing awareness of business practices and technology.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
A Masters degree in Business Management is to prepare students for entrepreneurship, human resources and technology management. You will become a highly skilled practitioner in the policies, procedures and principles of Business Management. You will develop leadership skills becoming counsel to your peers in top management.
Typical Coursework
Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in Business Management degree programs include:
* Database Management Systems
* International Law
* Taxation Law
* Management Accounting
Career Related Information
Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter
In choosing to earn a Masters degree in Business Management you will be entering into a highly demanding career. A strong career path in business will be founded in both the public and private sectors.
Occupational Outlook For Business Management Including Salary Information
According to, swz.salary.com, the national annual median wage for a Business Manager varies from $77,779 to $136,925. Your salary will depend on the size of the company and region in which you are employed. There is a moderate demand for highly-skilled business Managers experts. According to bls.gov business managers are employed at a variety of Fortune 500 companies. These positions are high-level making competition for employment steep.
http://educhoices.org/articles/Business_Management_Degree_Information_-_Master_Degree.html
Civil Engineering Degree Info - Master Degree Review
An advanced degree in Civil Engineering will teach you the necessary environmental policies and procedures you will need to advance your career. With Masters degrees in Civil Engineering graduates will join the competition for high-level positions in construction and mechanics.
Summary of the an Civil Engineering Degree Program
In a Masters Degree program of Civil Engineering you will acquire strong technical skills in Hydraulics & water resources engineering. Your coursework will need to be focused on the type of engineering you will want to be employed in. Upon graduation you will know how to apply your skills to solve a variety of environmental issues affecting construction. You will be an industry leader in implementing engineering and environmental policies and procedures. As a civil engineering graduate you will be prepared to enter into construction management. You should be working consistently in the heavy construction industry of major infrastructures.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
Students will become highly skilled practitioners focusing on creating, improving and protecting the environment. You will develop critical thinking and problem solving skills focusing on environmental strategies. As a graduate of a Masters program, your oral and written communication skills will be enhanced and you will be able to communicate information to diverse groups of people involved in environmental issues.
Typical Coursework
Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in Doctoral degree programs include:
* Environmental Economics
* Managing Environmental Risks
* Water Quality Control
* Chemical and Biological Processes in Environmental Engineering
Career Related Information
Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter
In choosing to earn a Masters degree in Civil Engineering you will be preparing to plan, design, build, and manage major construction. According to cee.mtu.edu, Civil Engineers are problem solvers. Graduates will find themselves meeting the challenges of traffic congestion, energy needs and urban redevelopment. You can directly impact the health and well-being of the people in the communities in which you are involved in construction.
Occupational Outlook For Civil Engineering Including Salary Information
According to swz.salary.com, the national annual median wage for a person graduating with a Masters in Civil Engineering varies from $86,429 to $101,207. Your salary will depend on the size of the company and region in which you are employed.
http://educhoices.org/articles/Civil_Engineering_Degree_Info_-_Master_Degree_Review.html
Summary of the an Civil Engineering Degree Program
In a Masters Degree program of Civil Engineering you will acquire strong technical skills in Hydraulics & water resources engineering. Your coursework will need to be focused on the type of engineering you will want to be employed in. Upon graduation you will know how to apply your skills to solve a variety of environmental issues affecting construction. You will be an industry leader in implementing engineering and environmental policies and procedures. As a civil engineering graduate you will be prepared to enter into construction management. You should be working consistently in the heavy construction industry of major infrastructures.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
Students will become highly skilled practitioners focusing on creating, improving and protecting the environment. You will develop critical thinking and problem solving skills focusing on environmental strategies. As a graduate of a Masters program, your oral and written communication skills will be enhanced and you will be able to communicate information to diverse groups of people involved in environmental issues.
Typical Coursework
Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in Doctoral degree programs include:
* Environmental Economics
* Managing Environmental Risks
* Water Quality Control
* Chemical and Biological Processes in Environmental Engineering
Career Related Information
Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter
In choosing to earn a Masters degree in Civil Engineering you will be preparing to plan, design, build, and manage major construction. According to cee.mtu.edu, Civil Engineers are problem solvers. Graduates will find themselves meeting the challenges of traffic congestion, energy needs and urban redevelopment. You can directly impact the health and well-being of the people in the communities in which you are involved in construction.
Occupational Outlook For Civil Engineering Including Salary Information
According to swz.salary.com, the national annual median wage for a person graduating with a Masters in Civil Engineering varies from $86,429 to $101,207. Your salary will depend on the size of the company and region in which you are employed.
http://educhoices.org/articles/Civil_Engineering_Degree_Info_-_Master_Degree_Review.html
Clinical Psychology Degree Review - Master Degree Info
A degree in Clinical Psychology will teach you the necessary leadership skills you need to enter into a rewarding career. With a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology, graduates may enter careers in academics or health care or start their own practices.
Summary of the Clinical Psychology Degree Program
In a Masters Degree program for Clinical Psychology you will enhance your critical thinking and problem solving skills. A Clinical Psychology degree is specific to healing and helping people maintain a sense of health and well-being.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
A Masters degree in Clinical Psychology will prepare you to make assessments and communicate the needs of patients. You will be expected to be organized and multi-task oriented. Graduates will counsel their peers in the policies and procedures of psychology.
Typical Coursework
Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in a Clinical Psychology degree program include:
* Psychobiology and Animal Behavior
* Human Learning, Memory and Cognition
* Personnel and Industrial and Organizational Psychology
* Case Management/Clinical Practice
Career Related Information
Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter
In choosing to earn a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology you will be entering into a highly rewarding career of helping people cope with their lives. A strong sense of integrity, honesty and loyalty will be essential in maintaining an ethical practice. With a Masters in Clinical Psychology you may enter into fields of research, teaching, or work in school systems or you may create your own practice.
Occupational Outlook For Clinical Psychology Including Salary Information
According to, worldwidelearn.com, the demand for psychology graduates is due to increase through 2014. The expansion of health care and the increasing focus on psychology studies in schools will drive growth across the field. Those graduates in Masters Programs trained in applied specialties like counseling, health, and school psychology stand to benefit the most. According to, swz.salary.com, the national annual median wage for a Chemical Dependency Counselor varies from $36,832 to $46,480.
http://educhoices.org/articles/Clinical_Psychology_Degree_Review_-_Master_Degree_Info.html
Summary of the Clinical Psychology Degree Program
In a Masters Degree program for Clinical Psychology you will enhance your critical thinking and problem solving skills. A Clinical Psychology degree is specific to healing and helping people maintain a sense of health and well-being.
Specific Skills You Will Learn
A Masters degree in Clinical Psychology will prepare you to make assessments and communicate the needs of patients. You will be expected to be organized and multi-task oriented. Graduates will counsel their peers in the policies and procedures of psychology.
Typical Coursework
Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in a Clinical Psychology degree program include:
* Psychobiology and Animal Behavior
* Human Learning, Memory and Cognition
* Personnel and Industrial and Organizational Psychology
* Case Management/Clinical Practice
Career Related Information
Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter
In choosing to earn a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology you will be entering into a highly rewarding career of helping people cope with their lives. A strong sense of integrity, honesty and loyalty will be essential in maintaining an ethical practice. With a Masters in Clinical Psychology you may enter into fields of research, teaching, or work in school systems or you may create your own practice.
Occupational Outlook For Clinical Psychology Including Salary Information
According to, worldwidelearn.com, the demand for psychology graduates is due to increase through 2014. The expansion of health care and the increasing focus on psychology studies in schools will drive growth across the field. Those graduates in Masters Programs trained in applied specialties like counseling, health, and school psychology stand to benefit the most. According to, swz.salary.com, the national annual median wage for a Chemical Dependency Counselor varies from $36,832 to $46,480.
http://educhoices.org/articles/Clinical_Psychology_Degree_Review_-_Master_Degree_Info.html
University Of Phoenix
As the largest private university in the country, University of Phoenix is a tremendous success story. Much of this success comes from designing its programs to fit into the typical working adult's schedule. Classes are offered during the day, at night, or on weekends, or online, making it possible for most people to find the time to fit education into their schedule. With 50 campuses and 91 learning centers in 29 states, the University of Phoenix provides a close location to a large percentage of the population of the United States.
University of Phoenix also requires its students to be at least 21 years old. The average student is in their 30s, and has many years of practical experience. Many are executives or business owners. This helps insure that the class is filled with highly motivated people who are ready to learn. In addition, classes are all designed to emphasize the application of course material to real world problems. This helps students get immediate and tangible benefits from the education they receive.
Undergraduate classes run for 5 weeks, and graduate classes run for 6 weeks, allowing students to take classes without having to commit to being available for 16 weeks in a row as with traditional universities. Students who take classes continuously can complete a degree program in as little as two years.
Many different types of programs are offered, all designed and tailored to meet the needs of high demand careers. As of their 2003 Annual Report, University of Phoenix has:
- More than 200,000 students
- More than 17,000 faculty
- More than 95,000 students attending University of Phoenix Online
- More than 45,000 students in its undergraduate and graduate business schools
- 5000 students in Criminal Justice administration programs
- More than 6300 students in bachelors and masters degree in nursing programs
- More than 12,000 students pursuing education degree programs.
- A student population growing at more than 60% per year
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/special_topics/university_of_phoenix
Career Test
Millions of people are looking for help in determining what career will be best for them. Many of these people turn to career tests to get help. But do they help? This article will discuss three different popular career testing solutions. This article is not a review or comparison between the tests, and does not attempt to pick a winner. Rather, this article focuses on how career tests work, and how they may be helpful to you.
Career testing from three different companies were reviewed. The reviewed career tests were from:
• Career Key (free)• American Career Test
• Thinking Craft
All 3 companies offered a similar basic methodology for ferreting out your best possible career. The questions are designed to get you to reveal aspects of who you are and your preferences. There are no right or wrong answers. It is important to answer these questions as honestly as you can. After all, you are trying to learn about yourself!
Here is some information on each career test and how they work:
Career Key
Career Key asks you questions about the kinds of jobs you think that you might like, what skills you think you have, what types of things that you like to work with and more. The questions are fairly direct in nature. There are 5 total screens that cover the following information:
• Career test screen 1: Jobs that interest you – you are offered a list of 43 jobs and are asked to check all that interest you.• Career test screen 2: Things you like to do – you choose the best answer for you for 6 different questions about things you like to do.
• Career test screen 3: Your abilities – you choose the best answer for you for 6 different questions about your abilities.
• Career test screen 4: How you see yourself – you choose the best answer for you for 6 different questions about how you see yourself.
• Career test screen 5: Things that you value – you choose the best answer for you for 6 different questions about things that you value.
You need to complete all 5 screens before being provided initial results. These results provide a summary of your major personality characteristics. You learn whether or not you are realistic, investigative, artistic, social, enterprising, or conventional. Each characteristic is given a numeric score from 1 to 20, with 20 being the highest, and 1 being the lowest. Of course, you have some aspect of all of these characteristics, but the Career Key test seeks to tell you which areas you are most like.
Once you have learned this about yourself, you are offered the chance to see what types of jobs relate to each characteristic. You are encouraged to click on the characteristics that the tests gave you the highest score on, but can click on any of them if you like. Once you click on one of these characteristics, you are given a list of different types of career choices that match up with the characteristic. At that point it is up to you to make sense of the results and relate it to your own career choice. The business model is great – its free. But the test leaves you with limited information about your career choices. You can take the Career Key test at http://www.careerkey.org.
American Career Test
American Career Test offers a career testing service that uses 3 screens to ask you questions about yourself. American Career Test provides 3 screens of questions. The questions as you to evaluate different statements about yourself and provide honest answers about them, as follows:
• Career test screen 1: 30 statements about yourself that you attempt to comment as to “How true is this of me?”. Possible answers are: Rarely, Sometimes, Usually, and Most Always.• Career test screen 2: 30 statements about yourself that you attempt to comment as to “How true is this of me?”. Possible answers are: Rarely, Sometimes, Usually, and Most Always.
• Career test screen 3: A list of 60 adjectives, for which you evaluate whether or not you or others would say it describes your nature. Possible answers are Rarely, Sometimes, Usually. In addition, this screen has 10 questions about different work activities and whether or not you are interested in them. Possible answers are None, Some, and Much.
American Career Test lets you take the test for free. But once you are done you can’t get your test results until you pick a payment plan. Possible payment plans are:
• Basic career test report - $7.95 – You get a personal profile plus a summary of the 25 top career choices for you.• Bronze career test report - $24.95 – In addition to the basic report, your scores are compared against national averages.
• Silver career test report - $34.95 – In addition to the bronze report, your career suggestions are prioritized taking into account your character mix.
• Gold career test report - $59.95 – In addition to the sliver report, you receive a Management function profile, a management type profile, and a management level profile.
These test reports can help you get some insight into your personality, your motivations, how you like to work, how you compare to others, whether or not you are inclined towards management, and of course, the best career choice for you. American Career Test has done a nice job of presenting the questions and the test results. You can take the American Career Test at http://www.acareertest.org.
Thinking Craft
Thinking Craft’s test questions focus more on personality choices. You are asked to choose between two pairs of personality traits. In some cases, you will find yourself choosing a pair where you don’t like either choice, but you still must pick one over the other. An example of the 2 choices is: individualistic / considerate or fearless / industrious. The choices become difficult if you consider yourself individualistic and fearless, but not considerate or industrious. All in all you make 18 such choices.
Once you are done with the test, you get a variety of different types of data to consider. The first is the Assessment Graph. The assessment graph provides you a rating of four key characteristics: Interactor Style, Analyzer Style, Synthesizer Style, and Concluder Style. Thinking Craft offers a detailed explanation as to what each of the various characteristics mean.
In addition, the Thinking Craft test report offers extensive detail in many other aspects of your personality, as well as suggestions on how to act on them. Some of the test report information includes:
• Career Test Result Page 1: The Learning Style Assessment –a report on how you learn.• Career Test Result Page 2: On-line Learning Guides – a report on how you can optimize your study and learning experience.
• Career Test Result Page 3 : Classroom Strategies – a report on how you can get the best results in the classroom.
• Career Test Result Page 4: Study Tips – a report on how you can get the best results while studying.
• Career Test Result Page 5: You on the Job – a report on what you are like on the job.
• Career Test Result Page 6: How They See You On The Job – a report on how others see you on the job.
Thinking Craft’s test reports are very personality focused, intending to help you see more about yourself, how to get the best results for yourself, and how others see you. They can help you learn more about how to succeed. The test reviewed here was specifically career focused, but does a nice job of presenting the questions and the test results. You can take the Thinking Craft test at http://www.thinkingcraft.com.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/special_topics/career_test
SAT Writing Questions
Beginning in March of 2005, the SAT Reasoning Test has a new writing section. The SAT writing questions take up 60 minutes of the test and are delivered in two sections, a 25-minute essay, and a 35-minute multiple choice section.
- Essay - The essay is treated as a first draft. Spelling and punctuation errors should not impact the score of the essay unless they are so pervasive that they impact the reader's ability to understand the essay. The student will be presented with a prompt, a quotation or short passage, which they will then use to develop a well thought-out essay.
- Multiple choice questions - The writing multiple choice questions deal with identifying errors, improving sentences, and improving paragraphs. There are 49 multiple choice questions in the writing section of the SAT.
SAT Score for Writing
The SAT Score for the writing section is more complicated. First, the student will receive an SAT score for the writing section as a whole on the 200 to 800 scale. In addition, the student will receive two sub scores. The first sub score is for the essay. The second sub score is for the multiple choice part of the writing test.
- Essay sub score: This will be scored on a 2 to 12 scale. A score of 2 means that the essay is "fundamentally lacking". A score of 12 is outstanding.
- Multiple choice sub score: This will be scored on a 20 to 80 scale.
How Is the Essay Scored?
The student written essay will be scored by trained high school and college teachers with classroom experience. Each essay will be scored separately by two readers. They will be treating the written essay as a whole and looking at the student's ability to develop, organize, express and support ideas. They will also be looking at sentence structure and word choice. As mentioned above, the essay will be treated as a first draft and some spelling and punctuation mistakes will be tolerated without an impact on the score. The essay represents one third of the total SAT score for the writing section.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/sat_writing_questions
SAT Vocabulary
Achievement Tests - The name used for the subject specific tests of the Admissions Testing program prior to 1994, when they were renamed to SAT II: Subject Tests. These were again renamed in 2005 to SAT Subject Tests.
Admissions Testing Program - The old name, prior to the 1993/1994 academic year, for what is now the College Board's SAT Program.
ATP - See Admissions Testing Program.
College Board - More commonly used name for the College Entrance Examination Board.
College Entrance Examination Board - Non-profit association founded in 1900 whose mission is to facilitate the college admission process through standardized academic measurement programs. Among its best known programs are the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, and the Advanced Placement Program (or AP).
CR - Acronym for the Critical Reading section of the SAT test starting with the New SAT (SAT Reasoning Test) in 2005.
Educational Testing Service - The Educational Testing Service administers and scores the SAT Reasoning Test, the SAT Subject Tests, as well as other tests.
Equating Section - Another name for the unscored section of the SAT.
ETS - See Educational Testing Service.
Grid-in - Another name for student-produced response questions. With these questions, a student must come up with an answer that they then write into a special grid. 10 questions of this type appear in the math section of the SAT Reasoning Test.
M - Acronym for the Math section of the SAT test.
Multiple Choice - A question type where the student selects and answer from several choices. The Majority of the questions on the SAT tests are multiple choice.
New SAT - A label given to indicate the major redesign of the SAT Program culminating with the introduction and delivery of the SAT Reasoning Test in March of 2005.
PSAT - Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test first introduced in 1959. Became the PSAT/NMSQT in the 1970s.
PSAT/NMSQT - Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. This test is used as a qualifying test for National Merit Scholarships.
SAT - Scholastic Aptitude Test.
SAT I - With the 1993/1994 academic year the SAT test was renamed the SAT I: Reasoning Test. Many simply referred to it as the SAT I.
SAT I: Reasoning Test - In the 1993/1994 academic year the SAT test was renamed the SAT I: Reasoning Test.
SAT II: Subject Tests - In the 1993/1994 academic year the Achievement Tests were renamed SAT II: Subject Tests.
SAT Program - One of the major programs of the College Board. The SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject Tests are part of the SAT Program.
SAT Reasoning Test - As of March of 2005, the name SAT I: Reasoning Test has been shortened to SAT Reasoning Test. This is also referred to as the "new SAT". Prior to 1994 this was simply called the SAT.
SAT Score - The SAT score consists of a score for each of the SAT sections. Prior to 2005, there was an SAT Verbal and an SAT Math score on a scale of 200 to 800. With the "New SAT", starting in March of 2005, there are now three scores, one each for SAT Writing, SAT Math, and SAT Critical reading. Each score is on the familiar 200 to 800 scale. There are also two sub scores for the SAT writing section, one for the multiple choice part of the section on a 20 to 80 scale, and one for the essay on a 2 to 12 scale.
Student Produced Response - An SAT question type found in the math section of the SAT. With these questions, a student must come up with an answer that they then write into a special grid. 10 questions of this type appear in the math section of the SAT Reasoning Test.
Subject Tests - The shortened name given to the SAT Subject Tests.
V - Acronym for the Verbal section of the SAT test from the old SAT I: Reasoning Test, prior to the New SAT in 2005, and the old SAT, prior to the 1993/1994 academic year.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/sat_vocabulary
SAT Reading Questions
Beginning in March of 2005, the SAT Reasoning Test has a Critical Reading section that replaces the old Verbal section. The SAT Critical Reading questions take up 70 minutes of the test and are delivered in three sections, two 25-minute sections, and one 20-minute section. There are a total of 67 multiple choice questions in these sections consisting of 19 sentence completion questions and 48 reading comprehension questions.
SAT Score for Critical Reading
The student will receive an SAT score for the Critical Reading section on the 200 to 800 scale.
What Happened to Analogies?
Analogies have been dropped from the new SAT for several reasons. Questions of this type are not very relevant to current high school curriculums. In addition, analogy questions had a tendency to encourage students to memorize vocabulary as one means of studying for the SAT test.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/sat_reading_questions
SAT Prep For Parents
The SAT test is an important part of the college admissions process. College admissions have become much more competitive than it was when most parents were applying years ago. Your child's SAT score is one of the components that a college or university considers when evaluating your child's application. Because of this, an SAT score has the potential of impacting whether or not they get into the college or university of their choice. As you are probably aware, going to college, and choice of college, can have an impact on their success and earning potential later in life. Because of this, it is important not to take the SAT test preparation process too lightly.
Get Involved
You should not leave your child's preparation for the SAT Reasoning Test to chance. You should encourage them to create a test prep plan or you should help them to create such a plan. At a minimum, an SAT test prep plan should be written down and include specific goals and target completion dates for those goals. Space should also be left on the plan for "checking off" or measuring completion. In addition, you should monitor your child's progress against the plan. Be willing to help with preparation if needed.Be Encouraging Without Creating Stress
There is a fine line between helping and encouraging and creating stress. It is important to maintain a positive and helpful environment so that your child does not come to fear the test. You will need to maintain the "appropriate" amount of involvement to understand if your child is preparing for the test adequately. You may also want to consider helping your child to learn relaxation techniques for when they are in the test.
Encourage Your Child to Take the PSAT/NMSQT
While not as long and rigorous as the SAT Reasoning Test, the PSAT/NMSQT is a good beginning for SAT test prep. It will help your child to become familiar with the test in an actual test setting. Knowing their score may also help to give you some insight into where they need to provide extra focus for SAT prep activities. In addition, the PSAT/NMSQT is required for the opportunity to compete for a National Merit Scholarship.
Consider SAT Prep Courses and SAT Tutors
Preparing for the SAT Reasoning Test requires focus, dedication, and perseverance on the part of your child. There are a lot of things that compete for your child's attention and time such as their social lives, sports, and other extracurricular activities. It is easy for them to get distracted or simply not be able to make the time to prepare as they should. For this reason, you should consider enrolling your child in an SAT Prep course or hiring an SAT tutor. These are good ways of forcing them to make the time and actually study. With these options there is already a test prep plan, the content and outline of the course. The course instructor can also monitor your child's progress and give you feedback on how they are progressing.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/sat_prep_for_parents
SAT Prep
SAT Prep for the SAT Reasoning Test: There is no secret to preparing for the SAT Reasoning Test. There are two major areas a student should address in their prep:
- Practice, practice, practice
- Finding their weaknesses and improving their skills in those areas.
- Test instructions
- Test format
- Test question types
- Test question content
- Timing your progress through the test
The more familiar you are with the test, the less time you will have to spend navigating and understanding the test, and the more time you will be able to devote to actually answering questions on the test. Practicing, by taking practice SAT tests, is the best means of preparing for the SAT Reasoning Test. Doing this will, however, requires dedication, focus, and perseverance on your part.
Why Prepare for the SAT Reasoning Test?
Your SAT scores have the potential to significantly help or hurt your chances of getting into the college or university of your choice. The more competitive the college or university, the more important are your SAT scores, as well as your grades, high school transcripts, extracurricular activities, recommendations, written essays.
Create an SAT Test Prep Plan
The best way to start preparing for the SAT Reasoning Test is to develop an SAT Prep plan. You should specifically map out what it is you want to accomplish and your timeline for completion of specific milestones.
Set Specific Goals
When creating an SAT Prep plan, it is important to set specific and measurable goals. Setting general goals such as "take a bunch of practice exams" does not help you because there is no way to measure your progress. You need to set specific goals with target dates for completion. For example, you should set goals such as:
- When to take the PSAT/NMSQT (sophomore year, junior year, both).
- How many practice tests you will take and when you will complete them.
- What sections will need extra focus and how and when you will accomplish studying for them.
- Whether or not you are going to take an SAT prep course and when you will take it.
- You may even want to set goals for how well you improve answering questions on the practice exams you take.
Write It Down
Do not trust your plan to memory. Write it down. Write down tasks and target completions dates. Leave room on the plan for "checking off" or measuring completion of tasks.
Measure Yourself
It is very important for you to measure your progress against your plan. If you are not making enough progress perhaps your plan was too aggressive and needs to be modified. If you are making progress faster than anticipated then your plan may not be aggressive enough. You should consider enlisting a third party, such as a parent or a friend, to review your progress against the plan. Having someone else measure your progress may help to provide extra incentive.
Take the PSAT/NMSQT
While not as long and rigorous as the SAT Reasoning Test, the PSAT/NMSQT is a good beginning to your test prep. It will help you to become familiar with the test in an actual test setting. Your score may help to give you some insight into where you need to provide extra focus for your SAT prep activities. In addition, you have to take the PSAT/NMSQT if you want the opportunity to compete for a National Merit Scholarship.
Consider SAT Prep Courses and SAT Tutors
Preparing for the SAT Reasoning Test requires focus, dedication, and perseverance It is easy to get distracted or simply not be able to make the time to prepare as you should. Taking an SAT Prep course or hiring an SAT tutor are good ways of forcing yourself to make the time and actually study. With either of these options, there will already be a test prep plan, the content and outline of the course. There is also a third party, the course instructor, to evaluate your progress and keep you on task.
SAT Prep for the SAT Subject Tests
Preparing for the SAT Subject Tests is different. These tests are much more focused on the type of material that should have been covered in the classes that you have taken. Your prep for the SAT Subject Tests should be much more focused on review of classroom material similar to the way that you would get ready for a final exam. You should also consider taking an SAT Subject Test as close to the completion of your high school class or classes on the topic.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/sat_prep
About The SAT Subject Tests
The intent of the SAT Subjects Tests (formerly SAT II: Subject Tests prior to 2005, and Achievement Tests prior to the 1993/1994 academic year) is to measure a student's knowledge in a specific subject area. SAT Subject Tests are an excellent way for a student to demonstrate to a college or university proficiency in a particular subject. Most colleges and universities require that a student submit the scores of one or more subject tests as part of the application and admissions process.
Offered Tests and their Structure
All of the SAT Subject Tests are one hour in length. All are multiple choice tests. SAT Subject Tests fall into five subject areas:
1. English
* Literature - This test measures how well a student can read and interpret literature. It consists of 60 multiple choice questions.
2. History and Social Studies
* U.S. History (formerly American History and Social Studies) - This test measures how well a student has learned what is typically taught in high school U.S. History and Social Studies courses. It consists of 90 to 95 multiple choice questions.
* World History - This test is similar to the U.S History test with a focus on global history. It consists of 95 multiple choice questions.
3. Mathematics
* Math Level 1 - This test measures a student's knowledge of content that should be taught in the first three years of college-prep math. It includes Algebra I and II as well as one year of geometry. This test consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Some of the questions assume that the student will be using either a scientific or graphing calculator.
* Math Level 2 -This test measures a student's knowledge of content that should be taught in more than the first three years of college-prep math. It includes Algebra I and II, one year of geometry, and precalculas and/or trigonometry. This test consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Some of the questions assume that the student will be using either a scientific or graphing calculator.
4. Science
* Biology E (ecology)/M (molecular) - This test measures a student's knowledge of college-prep general biology. There is a core of 60 multiple choice questions. A student then chooses whether to complete 20 additional multiple choice questions in either ecological biology or molecular biology.
* Chemistry - This test measures a student's knowledge of college-prep chemistry. This test consists of 85 multiple choice questions.
* Physics - This test measures a student's knowledge of college-prep physics. This test consists of 75 multiple choice questions.
5. Languages - With the exception of the Latin Subject Test, all of the other language Subject Tests have 80 or more multiple choice questions. The Latin test has 70 to 75 multiple choice questions. Language Subject Tests with listening require that the student use an acceptable cassette player with headphones.
* Chinese with Listening
* French or French with Listening
* German or German with Listening
* Spanish or Spanish with Listening
* Modern Hebrew
* Italian
* Latin
* Japanese with Listening
* Korean with Listening
SAT Subject Test Scoring
All of the SAT Subject tests are scored on the 200 to 800 scale. The language Subject Tests with Listening also have sub scores. The French, German, and Spanish Subject Tests with listening have sub scores for listening and reading on a 20 to 80 scale. The Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Subject Tests with Listening have sub scores for listening, reading, and usage, also on a 20 to 80 scale.
The English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT)
The final delivery of the English Language Proficiency Test was in January of 2005.
The Writing Subject Test
The final delivery of the Writing Subject Test was in January of 2005. The new Writing Section of the SAT Reasoning Test contains content that is similar to what was in this test.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/about_the_sat_subject_tests
Offered Tests and their Structure
All of the SAT Subject Tests are one hour in length. All are multiple choice tests. SAT Subject Tests fall into five subject areas:
1. English
* Literature - This test measures how well a student can read and interpret literature. It consists of 60 multiple choice questions.
2. History and Social Studies
* U.S. History (formerly American History and Social Studies) - This test measures how well a student has learned what is typically taught in high school U.S. History and Social Studies courses. It consists of 90 to 95 multiple choice questions.
* World History - This test is similar to the U.S History test with a focus on global history. It consists of 95 multiple choice questions.
3. Mathematics
* Math Level 1 - This test measures a student's knowledge of content that should be taught in the first three years of college-prep math. It includes Algebra I and II as well as one year of geometry. This test consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Some of the questions assume that the student will be using either a scientific or graphing calculator.
* Math Level 2 -This test measures a student's knowledge of content that should be taught in more than the first three years of college-prep math. It includes Algebra I and II, one year of geometry, and precalculas and/or trigonometry. This test consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Some of the questions assume that the student will be using either a scientific or graphing calculator.
4. Science
* Biology E (ecology)/M (molecular) - This test measures a student's knowledge of college-prep general biology. There is a core of 60 multiple choice questions. A student then chooses whether to complete 20 additional multiple choice questions in either ecological biology or molecular biology.
* Chemistry - This test measures a student's knowledge of college-prep chemistry. This test consists of 85 multiple choice questions.
* Physics - This test measures a student's knowledge of college-prep physics. This test consists of 75 multiple choice questions.
5. Languages - With the exception of the Latin Subject Test, all of the other language Subject Tests have 80 or more multiple choice questions. The Latin test has 70 to 75 multiple choice questions. Language Subject Tests with listening require that the student use an acceptable cassette player with headphones.
* Chinese with Listening
* French or French with Listening
* German or German with Listening
* Spanish or Spanish with Listening
* Modern Hebrew
* Italian
* Latin
* Japanese with Listening
* Korean with Listening
SAT Subject Test Scoring
All of the SAT Subject tests are scored on the 200 to 800 scale. The language Subject Tests with Listening also have sub scores. The French, German, and Spanish Subject Tests with listening have sub scores for listening and reading on a 20 to 80 scale. The Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Subject Tests with Listening have sub scores for listening, reading, and usage, also on a 20 to 80 scale.
The English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT)
The final delivery of the English Language Proficiency Test was in January of 2005.
The Writing Subject Test
The final delivery of the Writing Subject Test was in January of 2005. The new Writing Section of the SAT Reasoning Test contains content that is similar to what was in this test.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/about_the_sat_subject_tests
About The SAT
The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) was created by the College Entrance Examination Board, more commonly referred to as the College Board, in the 1920s. It was first delivered in June of 1926 to just over 8,000 students. In 1927 the test was first scored on the now familiar scale of 200 to 800. By 1930, the SAT had been divided into two sections, the SAT Verbal and SAT Math sections, which have stayed with the test for most of its history. The subject specific Achievement Tests were first introduced by the College Board in April of 1937. In 1947, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) was founded to do research, assessment development, test administration and scoring, and other education related initiatives. The Educational Testing Service has been administering and scoring the SAT ever since. The PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test) was introduced in October of 1959. In the 1970s, through a partnership between the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, the PSAT was changed into the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). In the 1993/1994 academic year, the College Board introduced a newly designed SAT Program with the SAT Test becoming the SAT I: Reasoning Test and the Achievement Tests becoming the SAT II: Subject Tests. In March of 2005 the "New SAT" was introduced after another significant redesign program. With the introduction of the New SAT, the test names changed to SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject Tests.
The SAT, From Modest Beginning to a Major Force
From its modest beginnings in 1927, when just over 8,000 people took the test, the SAT has grown to a record number 1,419,007 test takers in 2004, or 48% of students nationwide In 2004, 53% of SAT test takers were female with average SAT scores of 504 on the SAT verbal section and 501 on the SAT math section. 47% of SAT test takers in 2004 were male with average SAT scores of 512 on the SAT verbal section and 537 on the SAT math section.
SAT, SAT I, SAT Reasoning Test - What's In a Name?
In a little over 10 years there have been two redesigns of the SAT test and several name changes. Enough has changed to possibly lead to some confusion. The SAT Program (referred to as the Admissions Testing Program prior to 1994) is one of the major programs of the College Entrance Examination Board, or College Board. The College Board's other major programs include the PSAT/NMSQT and the Advanced Placement Program (or AP).
The SAT Program includes:
1. The SAT Reasoning Test. This is what most people simply refer to as "the SAT". Prior to 2005 this test was referred to as the SAT I: Reasoning Test. Prior to 1994 it was simply the SAT.
2. The SAT Subject Tests. These can also be referred to simply as "Subject Tests". Prior to 2005 these were referred to as SAT II: Subject Tests. Most parents, and anyone who took the tests prior to 1994, would remember these as Achievement Tests. Subject tests are available in: English, history and social studies, mathematics, science and languages.
The "New SAT"
The New SAT represents the first major redesign of the SAT Program since the 1993/1994 academic year. Introduced in March of 2005, major changes have been made to the SAT Reasoning Test including:
* The addition of a new writing section with a written essay as well as multiple choice questions.
* In the math section, higher-level math, including topics from third-year college prep math courses, is now included.
* A Critical Reading Section (previously known as the verbal section) which includes short and long reading passages. Analogies have been eliminated.
Very little, beyond the name, has changed in the SAT Subject Tests. There is no longer an SAT Subject Test on writing since writing has been added to the SAT Reasoning Test.
The Purpose of the SAT
The SAT Program is designed to facilitate the college admissions process by providing a nationally standardized way of measuring critical thinking skills and knowledge. The intent of the test is to measure how well a student has mastered the skills necessary to be successful in college. Grades alone do not accomplish this because they are not standardized across schools. Standardized tests, such as the SAT, are one of the components used by colleges and universities in their admissions process, along with: a student's grades, high school transcripts, extra-curricular activities, written essays, and, potentially, interviews.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/about_the_sat
The SAT, From Modest Beginning to a Major Force
From its modest beginnings in 1927, when just over 8,000 people took the test, the SAT has grown to a record number 1,419,007 test takers in 2004, or 48% of students nationwide In 2004, 53% of SAT test takers were female with average SAT scores of 504 on the SAT verbal section and 501 on the SAT math section. 47% of SAT test takers in 2004 were male with average SAT scores of 512 on the SAT verbal section and 537 on the SAT math section.
SAT, SAT I, SAT Reasoning Test - What's In a Name?
In a little over 10 years there have been two redesigns of the SAT test and several name changes. Enough has changed to possibly lead to some confusion. The SAT Program (referred to as the Admissions Testing Program prior to 1994) is one of the major programs of the College Entrance Examination Board, or College Board. The College Board's other major programs include the PSAT/NMSQT and the Advanced Placement Program (or AP).
The SAT Program includes:
1. The SAT Reasoning Test. This is what most people simply refer to as "the SAT". Prior to 2005 this test was referred to as the SAT I: Reasoning Test. Prior to 1994 it was simply the SAT.
2. The SAT Subject Tests. These can also be referred to simply as "Subject Tests". Prior to 2005 these were referred to as SAT II: Subject Tests. Most parents, and anyone who took the tests prior to 1994, would remember these as Achievement Tests. Subject tests are available in: English, history and social studies, mathematics, science and languages.
The "New SAT"
The New SAT represents the first major redesign of the SAT Program since the 1993/1994 academic year. Introduced in March of 2005, major changes have been made to the SAT Reasoning Test including:
* The addition of a new writing section with a written essay as well as multiple choice questions.
* In the math section, higher-level math, including topics from third-year college prep math courses, is now included.
* A Critical Reading Section (previously known as the verbal section) which includes short and long reading passages. Analogies have been eliminated.
Very little, beyond the name, has changed in the SAT Subject Tests. There is no longer an SAT Subject Test on writing since writing has been added to the SAT Reasoning Test.
The Purpose of the SAT
The SAT Program is designed to facilitate the college admissions process by providing a nationally standardized way of measuring critical thinking skills and knowledge. The intent of the test is to measure how well a student has mastered the skills necessary to be successful in college. Grades alone do not accomplish this because they are not standardized across schools. Standardized tests, such as the SAT, are one of the components used by colleges and universities in their admissions process, along with: a student's grades, high school transcripts, extra-curricular activities, written essays, and, potentially, interviews.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/about_the_sat
About The PSAT NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) was first introduced in 1959 as the PSAT. In the 1970s, through a partnership between the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, the PSAT was changed into the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The PSAT/NMSQT serves two purposes:
1. As the preliminary SAT, the PSAT/NMSQT provides a student with a means to become familiar with the format of the SAT Reasoning Test in an actual test environment while also providing feedback, through the score, on areas for focus for SAT prep.
2. It is the qualifying test allowing students to compete for National Merit Scholarships.
Format of the PSAT/NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT is not as long or rigorous as the SAT Reasoning Test. The PSAT/NMSQT is 2 hours and 10 minutes in length. Like the SAT Reasoning Test, it is divided into three sections:
1. Critical Reading - this is a 50 minute section
2. Math- this is a 50 minute section
3. Writing - this is a 30 minute section
Most of the questions on the PSAT/NMSQT are multiple choice. There are some "student-produced response" or grid-in questions in the math section. In grid-in questions a student must write their answer in the supplied grid. There is no student-written essay on the PSAT/NMSQT as there is on the SAT Reasoning Test.
The PSAT/NMSQT Score
As with the SAT Reasoning Test, three scores are delivered for the PSAT/NMSQT, one each for the Critical Reading, Math, and Writing sections. Unlike the SAT Reasoning Test, the scores are on a 20 to 80 scale, and there are no sub scores for the writing section. In addition, a "Selection Index", which is simply the addition of the three scores, is also reported. The Selection Index is used in the National Merit Scholarship qualifying process.
Typically, a student's high school will deliver their PSAT/NMSQT scores to them.
When to Take the PSAT/NMSQT
A student should plan on taking the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of their junior year. Students must take the test in the fall of their junior year to potentially qualify for the National Merit Scholarship competition. Many students first take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of their sophomore year. Students who take the test in their sophomore year do not qualify for the National Merit Scholarship competition and must retake the test in the fall of their junior year to compete.
Where to Take the PSAT/NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT is not given in test centers as is the SAT Reasoning Test. It is given at a student's high school or other school in their community. Students should check with their school's guidance counselor for test dates, times, and locations.
National Merit Scholarship Notification
Notification of qualification as a "Commended Student" or National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist happens automatically in September of a student's senior year. A student's school will notify them.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/about_the_psat_nmsqt
1. As the preliminary SAT, the PSAT/NMSQT provides a student with a means to become familiar with the format of the SAT Reasoning Test in an actual test environment while also providing feedback, through the score, on areas for focus for SAT prep.
2. It is the qualifying test allowing students to compete for National Merit Scholarships.
Format of the PSAT/NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT is not as long or rigorous as the SAT Reasoning Test. The PSAT/NMSQT is 2 hours and 10 minutes in length. Like the SAT Reasoning Test, it is divided into three sections:
1. Critical Reading - this is a 50 minute section
2. Math- this is a 50 minute section
3. Writing - this is a 30 minute section
Most of the questions on the PSAT/NMSQT are multiple choice. There are some "student-produced response" or grid-in questions in the math section. In grid-in questions a student must write their answer in the supplied grid. There is no student-written essay on the PSAT/NMSQT as there is on the SAT Reasoning Test.
The PSAT/NMSQT Score
As with the SAT Reasoning Test, three scores are delivered for the PSAT/NMSQT, one each for the Critical Reading, Math, and Writing sections. Unlike the SAT Reasoning Test, the scores are on a 20 to 80 scale, and there are no sub scores for the writing section. In addition, a "Selection Index", which is simply the addition of the three scores, is also reported. The Selection Index is used in the National Merit Scholarship qualifying process.
Typically, a student's high school will deliver their PSAT/NMSQT scores to them.
When to Take the PSAT/NMSQT
A student should plan on taking the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of their junior year. Students must take the test in the fall of their junior year to potentially qualify for the National Merit Scholarship competition. Many students first take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of their sophomore year. Students who take the test in their sophomore year do not qualify for the National Merit Scholarship competition and must retake the test in the fall of their junior year to compete.
Where to Take the PSAT/NMSQT
The PSAT/NMSQT is not given in test centers as is the SAT Reasoning Test. It is given at a student's high school or other school in their community. Students should check with their school's guidance counselor for test dates, times, and locations.
National Merit Scholarship Notification
Notification of qualification as a "Commended Student" or National Merit Scholarship Semifinalist happens automatically in September of a student's senior year. A student's school will notify them.
http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/testing/sat_testing/about_the_psat_nmsqt
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