So your parents need some convincing as to why you just have to have a cool new cell phone. While they couldn't care less that your best friend just got one, here's a reason they won't argue with -- studying for the SAT!
Press #1 for Kaplan...
Software: Kaplan and Handmark, a smart mobile device software developer, have created SAT/PSAT-ACT 2005 for mobile phones and PDAs.
Specs: Suitable for most Palm OS-powered devices and Windows Mobile-based Pocket PCs and Smartphones.
Prep: The SAT Prep program includes over 1,200 questions and tips, plus challenging game scenarios to play alone or with friends when studying for the SAT. Personalize dynamic flash cards to overcome weak subjects. A strategy feature also teaches secrets to successful test-taking.
The Digits: $29.99, available online (visit www.handmark.com or www.kaplan.com) or through most major computer, home electronics, and office product retailers.
Press #2 for The Princeton Review...
Software: The Princeton Review and wireless application developer VOCEL are distributing The Princeton Review's Prep for the SAT.
Specs: Available for Verizon cell phone users
Prep: Interactive, hands-on practice, strategies, and tips similar to the setup of phone games or ring-tones are available to help you when studying for the SAT. Once downloaded, content resides in your phone, so you can access your SAT prep even when there's no phone signal. Content focuses on studying for the SAT in its new format (beginning March 2005). Choose from practice drills and immediate explanations for questions by subject -- such as grammar or algebra -- or timed practice exams for reading, writing, and math. Graphics, vibrations, and sound effects make the SAT prep lessons compelling. And, a special feature even allows the 'rents to be notified about your progress by phone or e-mail.
The Digits: $5.75 per month through Verizon's Get It Now catalog. The application will be available for free to all students enrolled in The Princeton Review Prep for the SAT classes.
On a side note...
OK, so all this SAT prep help is great, but is the SAT necessary for admissions? A milestone 20-year study by Bates College (Lewiston, MA), which is well known for its optional-SAT policy, doesn't think so. Among the findings:
- The difference in Bates graduation rates between SAT score submitters and non-submitters is 0.1 percent.
- Testing is not necessary for predicting good performance; the academic ratings assigned by Bates admissions staff are highly accurate for both submitters and non-submitters.
While optional testing is assumed to be a device for affirmative action, white students using the policy outnumbered students of color five to one.
And so the debate rages on, as you continue studying for the SAT. That is, of course, unless you plan on attending Bates. For a list of more schools that deemphasize SAT scores, surf www.fairtest.org/univ/optional.htm.
About the author:
http://www.collegesurfing.com/blog
Dawn Papandrea is the Managing Editor of The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.
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