The switch between ACT to SAT

Feature
By Pagie Rodgers
Husky Herald Reporter

  The sudden switch from the ACT to the SAT standardized testing has sparked quite a controversy amongst students at Port Huron Northern.

  As of 2016, high school juniors from all across Michigan will be required to take the SAT, opposed to the ACT

  Colleges require a score from applicants from either one test or both. The differences between the two tests lies in the format and scoring system.

  “The ACT and SAT help students to start planning outpost secondary education.” Alexx Landacre (‘16) said.

  The math and evidence, reading, and writing portions of the SAT are scored on a scale from 200-800, and the composite score is calculated from both sections and ranges from 400-1600. Meanwhile, the composite ACT is scored on a 1-36 based on the average between all four sections of English, Reading, Math and Science.

  The cause for the controversy is students feel as if they have been prepared for the ACT their whole lives, and suddenly that preparation will not matter.

  Other sparks of controversy stem from standardized testing in general. “I think it’s a good idea for colleges to get an idea of how students do in school, but I don’t think the SAT/ACT are a good way to do it.” Mikaela Dobel (‘17) said.

  “The tests adds unneeded stress and anxiety. Also, some people are good at taking tests and not school in general or vice versa,” said Dobel.

  The cause for the change from the ACT to the SAT is because SAT scores are more widely accepted by colleges and the scores are thought to be more accurate.

  Despite the sudden switch, students have taken the initiative to prepare themselves for the SAT. “I’ve been preparing for the SAT with the SAT Question of the Day app,” Ellie Kolar (‘17) said.

  Students can still take the ACT if they wish, however they must pay a fee of up to 62 dollars, and they must take it on their own time.

  No matter what test is being administered, all students are wished the best of luck on their SAT and/or the ACT from Port Huron Northern staff and fellow students.