Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. How much did the SAT scores for math and critical reading drop this year?

2. List three theories why students might have done worse on this year's test.

3. How have colleges reacted to this year's SAT scores?

4. What problem did the SAT have last year?

5. What is the main difference between the SAT and the ACT?

6. How many students took the SAT least year? How many took the ACT?

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. What are some criticisms of the SAT? Do you agree or disagree with the criticisms?

2. If you were an admissions officer at a college, how much weight would you give SAT scores? If your goal was to accept students who would do well at your school, what factors would you consider? Rank your criteria from the most important to the least important.

3. Conduct a poll at your school to find out how much emphasis students and parents put on tests like the SAT. Do you think there is too much emphasis, too little, or the right amount?

Write a 500-800 word essay on any of these topics providing clear examples. Send your completed editorial to NewsHour Extra [extra@newshour.org]. Exceptional essays might be published on our Web site.