Which college applicants submitted ACT or SAT scores?

Reporting was “far higher … among applicants living in more affluent communities, as defined by local median household income in applicants’ local ZIP codes.”

Which test should my son or daughter take: ACT or SAT?

This is (by far) the most frequently asked question, even though it has a relatively simple answer: have your daughter or son take practice tests and then we can help you make the decision. Ideally, students should take both practice tests within a 2-3 week period. If your student is a junior, you might be able to compare an ACT practice test score to his or her PSAT score. At Lafayette Academy, practice tests are ALWAYS FREE.

When should my daughter or son take the actual ACT or SAT?

Most students take their first ACT or SAT during the spring of their junior years. Advanced juniors can take a fall test (the beginning of their junior year). In all cases, you should consider extracurricular activities and how your student is scoring on practice tests when choosing a test date.

How many times can a student take a test?

Many students take the ACT or SAT test twice; some take each test once and then take one of the tests a second time. You should NOT take any of the tests more than three times.

What are the major differences between the ACT and SAT?

The math on the ACT covers more topics, ranging from Algebra 1 to Pre-Calc. The math on the SAT tests fewer topics, stopping at Algebra 2, but more in depth. The ACT has a science section while the SAT includes a few reading passages that focus on science topics. Time management is a big challenge on the ACT, especially in reading and science. The content on the SAT reading section is more challenging, even though you have more time. Again, taking practice tests is the best way to pick a test.

“What about the PSAT?” (for some reason, people often phrase PSAT questions like this example)

The PSAT is a good opportunity to get your son or daughter to take a practice test because most students take the PSAT. If you happen to have a genius living under your roof, the PSAT could be hugely beneficial because of the National Merit program. For most students, PSAT scores don’t matter so you should not spend money preparing your son or daughter for this test.

How can I be a great test prep parent?

In the interest of full disclosure, this is not a FAQ. If it were a FAQ, this would be my answer: challenge your children to embrace the preparation challenge on their own by promising to leave them alone (after you enroll them in one of our programs). We all mean well, but we fail to realize how much added stress we place on our children by micro-managing their test prep experience.

Does my son or daughter really need to take either test?

This has become a frequently asked frequently asked question because the University of California schools will no longer consider ACT or SAT scores in their evaluations, and other schools have followed their lead. There are many schools that still require or consider ACT or SAT scores in their evaluations or for scholarship purposes. Unless you are certain that your son or daughter will only apply to schools that won’t consider ACT or SAT scores, your child should still take one of these tests. Give us a call if you want to hear our more detailed thoughts.

My Child Gives Up Easily – Any Suggestions?

by Mark B | Apr 5, 2021 | General | 0 comments

For parents, having a child who gives up easily can be heartbreaking. You know they are smart, and they even like to learn, but without the right motivation, they struggle. If you have a child like this, we have a suggestion for you. Let your child focus on his or her successes from anywhere. If your child is motivated to do other things, allow him, and encourage her, to reach for higher goals. These successes can have motivating effects in all aspects of their lives.

Tips for Motivating Kids Who Give Up Easily

Whether your children are bored, anxious, or just not motivated, getting them to push themselves in school can be difficult. When kids give up easily, it is their way of saying that something about what you want them to do is off. By giving alternatives, it can help them stay focused and strive for more. Here are a few extra tips that can help them stay motivated to do better.

Encourage your child to try new things that they choose. This may be trying a new food, a new activity, or a new routine. These small changes can help them feel more in control over what is going on, allowing them to boost their confidence.
Set the right example. If your child sees you giving up regularly, he or she is more likely to follow that example. If you want your child to remain focused on a task, then do the same. The more they see you starting and completing a task, the more likely they are to follow suit.
Clearly state your expectations for your child to your child. This does not mean yelling or condescending conversations, but instead, tell them what you expect, and leave it at that. They will either rise to your expectation or they will begin to struggle. Seeing the low-level natural consequences that come with not meeting those expectations can be a motivating factor in and of itself. After all, if they learn when the consequences are minor, they at not as likely to have those issues in the future when the consequences are far higher.

Turn to Us Here at Lafayette Academy for Help Inspiring Your Child

Call on us today at Lafayette Academy. We would love to help you and your child succeed together.

My Child Gives Up Easily – Any Suggestions?

Tips for Motivating Kids Who Give Up Easily

Turn to Us Here at Lafayette Academy for Help Inspiring Your Child

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