Alee Academy will administer the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test to 10th grade students on October 10, 2018. This test is used as a counseling and diagnostic tool which can also be used to get students to start thinking about advanced coursework and college/career planning. While this test is optional for grade 10 students, there are many benefits for students that take it, some of which are the following:
- Grade 10 PSAT/NMSQT testing is an indicator of performance on the SAT.
- The PSAT/NMSQT includes reading, mathematics, and writing and language components that focus on the knowledge and skills that are most essential for college and career readiness and success; it is also used as a diagnostic tool to measure and follow student performance and pinpoint areas for development.
- Results can help identify each student’s potential for academic success at the postsecondary level.
- Test results will provide high school guidance counselors with information to help identify students who may be ready to enroll and be successful in Advanced Placement and other college preparatory courses, or identify students who may need additional instruction to do so.
- Test results can open up discussion about future education plans that otherwise may not have been considered.
- Math sub score can be used as a comparative score to meet the Algebra EOC graduation requirement.
Calculator Policy and tips for PSAT/NMSQT:
- Students are strongly encouraged to bring a calculator to the PSAT/NMSQT on test day, whether or not they plan to use it.
- Take a calculator you are comfortable using. Don’t buy a new one just for the test.
- Don’t try to use the calculator on every question. No question requires one.
- Decide how to solve each problem before deciding whether to use a calculator.
- Practice sample questions with a calculator on hand.
Approved Calculators
- Four-Function Calculators (approved, but not recommended)
- Scientific Calculators
- Most Graphing Calculators
Calculators Not Permitted
- Pocket organizer
- Hand-held or laptop computer
- Electronic writing pad, tablet, or pen input device
- Calculator with a QWERTY (typewriter-like) keypad
- Calculator with paper tape
- Calculator that makes noises or “talks”
- Calculator with a power cord or that requires an outlet
Complete List of Approved Calculators
If you have questions, please contact Annelise Daniel at (352) 357-9426 or [email protected] .
If you would like for your child not to participate in the PSAT test, please contact Annelise Daniel at [email protected] by October 5, 2018.
You may visit collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt-psat-10 for more information, including practice tests and sample questions.