ISP - What is covered on the SAT? Lesson

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What is covered on the SAT?

image of graduation The SAT requires students to:

  • read and analyze challenging texts, including material over science and social studies
  • revise and edit texts, paying attention to grammar, usage, and punctuation conventions
  • show a command of knowledge and understanding in math and solve problems in science, social studies, and career-related contexts
  • make use of evidence while reading and writing
  • demonstrate skills in analyzing data which may be in the form of tables, graphs, and charts in reading, writing, and math
  • demonstrate an understanding of relevant words in context and understand how word choice helps meaning and tone

The SAT is divided up into four components: a reading test, a writing and language test, a math test, and an essay, which is optional.

The Reading Test is a challenging assessment of comprehension and reading skills with a focus on reading difficult passages in a wide array of subject areas.   Students must show a command of textual evidence by identifying a portion of the text that serves as the best evidence for the answer to another question.   Furthermore, students will determine the meaning of words and phrases and how word choice shapes the meaning and tone.

The Writing and Language Test is a passage-based assessment of students' ability to revise and edit a range of texts in a variety of subject areas. Passages will be written with grammar, usage, and punctuation errors for the students to identify and recognize.  

The Math Test focuses heavily on algebra. It will assess a student's ability to analyze, fluently solve, and create linear equations and inequalities. In addition, the math section will include a significant focus on problem-solving and data analysis.  Students can also expect to see geometry questions on congruence, similarity, right triangles, the Pythagorean theorem, complex numbers, and trigonometric functions. The math test includes two portions: one where students may use a calculator and another where students may not.

The Essay Test is an optional component of the exam. Students must produce a written analysis of a provided source text. Students will explain how the author of the text builds an argument to persuade the audience through evidence, reasoning, and stylistic and persuasive elements.

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