Cognitive Skills

What is the SAT really testing and why colleges place so much emphasis on the SAT?

Initially, the SAT and similar exams were formulated to predict how well a student will perform in college or in any other academic institution.  The SAT attempts to measure whether a student has basic knowledge and academic skills required in a college program.

The SAT is not merely a math and English test; it has complex texts and math questions that go beyond simple knowledge of formulas and grammar rules.

To do well on SAT one needs a range of skills; these include analyzing text and extracting important information, breaking down and solving difficult problems, recognizing recurring patterns and memorizing many words quickly.

These skills, which are important in any intellectual undertaking, are often overlooked in a course of a regular school program.

IvyPrep SAT course uses the preparation for the SAT as a chance to teach and develop these cognitive skills.  

Along with intensive math and English tutorials, we offer a group of workshops teaching students how to break down a question, analyze a text, recognize specific types of problems and memorize SAT vocabulary.

Mastery of these skills will not only help to get a higher score on the SAT, but will also help to do well in a future school projects.