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View Full Version : PSAT - convince me

Kinsa
05-06-2009, 04:15 PM
As far as I am able to tell, there are two reasons for the PSAT:
1. Practice for the SAT
2. National Merit Scholarship

Now, if you have "mediocre" students, and plan to practice the SAT in other methods, is there any reason to take the PSAT?

Convince me, because at this point, I'm leaning toward the "blow it off" side. :confused:
Piano&ViolinMom
05-06-2009, 04:33 PM
As far as I am able to tell, there are two reasons for the PSAT:
1. Practice for the SAT
2. National Merit Scholarship

Agree with 2 reasons of yours. I too want to see if there are more reasons for taking PSAT.
kate in seattle
05-06-2009, 05:37 PM
in our state (WA) we are required to have our students either tested or assesed annually. the PSAT counts as a valid test instrument - so cheaper and perhaps less hassle than setting up testing.
Kendall
05-06-2009, 05:46 PM
In our state(maybe others) you can get the State Farm Insurance good student discount for a PSAT score in the top 20%. National Merit Finalists are in the top .5%.

The PSAT is cheap (about $15).

It gives them a forced sit and take it all at once practice experience.

You may find that your mediocre student isn't as mediocre as you thought. (I did) Though I'm not sure what to do with the information:)
Piano&ViolinMom
05-06-2009, 05:58 PM
In our state(maybe others) you can get the State Farm Insurance good student discount for a PSAT score in the top 20%. National Merit Finalists are in the top .5%. The PSAT is cheap (about $15).

Hmmm, that's very nice deal.
Ria
05-06-2009, 08:01 PM
I have my kids take the SATs early (9th and 10th grades). Depending on how they do on those tests, I decide whether or not to have them take the PSAT. The only possible benefit I see of the PSAT is the scholarship potential, but I wouldn't want a kid to go into that "cold" so to speak, thus part of the reason for the SATs earlier.

Ria
Laurel-in-CA
05-06-2009, 08:27 PM
For us, it served to focus SAT prep.
tex-mex
05-06-2009, 09:49 PM
Do you suggest to take the PSAT in 9th and 10th grades then -- if the student is average?
Kendall
05-06-2009, 10:01 PM
I would definitely have them take it in 10th, then you can see if they will have a chance for National Merit Finalist and prepare accordingly.