Manga – Japanese-style graphic novels – account for 20% of books checked out from libraries, according to this Bloomberg News story. So it must have seemed a great way to help teens build their vocabulary in preparation for SAT and ACT tests.Kaplan has produced three vocabulary building manga, each with 300 prep words, their definitions [...]

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It’s finals time again! Here are some tips for preparing from West Chester University. The first reading of the material should be followed by a break of several hours before a second reading of the same material. Predict exam questions using as possible questions the textbook headings, class notes, and previous quizzes and exams. Keep [...]

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An article [link free 4 weeks only] in Science says testing boosts memory. Students who break into a cold sweat at the thought of a pop quiz might feel better once they learn about a side effect of test-taking: The practice appears to enhance memory, possibly even more than studying. What’s more, according to a [...]

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For years students (and their parents) have been sweating the SAT. Now, the ACT is increasing in popularity, with many students taking both. An article in CNN.com explains why many students opt to take both: Last year, many students reported being worn out by the length of the newly revised SAT, which is has been [...]

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Here are some test-taking strategies to reduce anxiety and build confidence. Featured on the West Bloomfield (Michigan) School District web site, these tips capture a lot of what students need to do to be more calm when taking a test. However, it misses out on the most important thing one can do: Know Your Stuff! [...]

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As a parent, I struggle with balance like most parents do. I like to make sure my kids have some down time, but I feel the pressure of living in a community of over-achievers. According to an article in yesterday’s NY Times, Scarsdale High School, where 70 percent of the 1,500 students take an Advanced [...]

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I often get calls from parents whose children study hard, get ‘A’s on their homework, and then do poorly come test time. Many times, these parents tell me their child suffers from test anxiety. I’m certainly in no position to doubt their conclusion. But let me ask you a question: Did you ever blow-off studying [...]

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