ACT Test, SAT Test, AP Test Preparation in Chicago (2024)

Chicago Academic

Chicago Academic

ACT TEST Preparation

The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It assesses a student's readiness for college and provides colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. The test covers four academic skill areas:

1. English: Focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
2. Mathematics: Covers pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
3. Reading: Tests reading comprehension skills.
4. Science: Assesses interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills in the natural sciences.

There's also an optional Writing section, which involves writing an essay. The test is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with each section receiving a score in this range. The composite score is the average of the four test scores.

1. ACT Test Prep in Chicago
2. Free ACT Practice Test
3. Private ACT Prep Classes

AP Exam Preparation

AP Exams (Advanced Placement Exams) are standardized tests administered by the College Board in the United States. They are designed to assess high school students' mastery of college-level coursework in various subjects. Performing well on an AP Exam can earn students college credit, advanced placement in college courses, or both, depending on the institution's policies.

Key Details about AP Exams:

1. Subjects: AP Exams are offered in a wide range of subjects, including sciences, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, and languages. Some popular AP courses include:
   • AP Biology
   • AP Calculus (AB and BC)
   • AP English Literature and Composition
   • AP U.S. History
   • AP Psychology
   • AP Physics
2. Format: AP Exams typically consist of a combination of multiple-choice questions and free-response questions (such as essays or problem-solving exercises). The format varies depending on the subject.
   • For example, AP English Literature includes multiple-choice questions on reading passages and free-response questions requiring essay writing.
   • AP Calculus has both multiple-choice and free-response questions that involve solving mathematical problems.
3. Scoring: AP Exams are scored on a scale of 1 to 5:
   • 5: Extremely well qualified
   • 4: Well qualified
   • 3: Qualified
   • 2: Possibly qualified
   • 1: No recommendation Many colleges grant credit for scores of 3 or higher, but some more selective schools may require a score of 4 or 5 for credit.
4. Timing: AP Exams are usually held once a year in May. Each exam lasts about 2-3 hours, depending on the subject.
5. Preparation: Students typically prepare for AP Exams by taking an AP course in high school, which covers the material on the exam. Many students also use study guides, practice tests, and other resources to prepare.

AP Exam Prep in Chicago

SAT Exam Preparation

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. It is designed to assess a high school student's readiness for college by measuring key skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. The SAT is administered by the College Board.

Key Components of the SAT:

1. Sections:
   • Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW):
     • Reading Test: Assesses reading comprehension and the ability to interpret, synthesize, and use evidence from a range of sources. Passages may come from literature, historical documents, social sciences, and sciences.
     • Writing and Language Test: Focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and understanding the context of words and phrases.
   • Mathematics:
     • Math Test – No Calculator: Includes questions on algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and some advanced math concepts. Calculators are not allowed in this section.
     • Math Test – Calculator: Covers similar topics but allows the use of a calculator. There are both multiple-choice and grid-in questions.
   • Optional Essay (Discontinued as of June 2021): Previously, this section required students to analyze a provided text and write an essay, but it has been discontinued.
2. Scoring:
   • The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600.
   • The EBRW section is scored on a scale of 200 to 800.
   • The Math section is also scored on a scale of 200 to 800.
   • The scores from both sections are combined to form the total score.
   • There are also subscores and cross-test scores that provide more detailed information about a student's strengths and weaknesses.
3. Duration:
   • The SAT without the Essay lasts 3 hours.
   • The SAT with the Essay (when it was offered) lasted 3 hours and 50 minutes.
4. Test Dates:
   • The SAT is offered several times a year, typically in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
5. Preparation:
   • Students typically prepare for the SAT through a combination of coursework, practice tests, study guides, and prep courses.
   • The College Board also offers official SAT practice through Khan Academy, which provides free resources, including practice questions and personalized study plans.
6. Importance in College Admissions:
   • While some colleges have moved to test-optional policies, the SAT is still an important factor in admissions decisions for many schools.
   • SAT scores can also be used for scholarship eligibility and placement in college-level courses.
7. SAT Prep in Chicago

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