VARSITY ADMISSIONS AN EDUCATION BLOG

A Guide to the Study Guide

September 26, 2012
A Guide to the Study Guide

Everyone has their own method of studying, but the classic process of making a study guide is something you see quite often.  But how can you make a truly great study material that will actually increase your chances of successfully retaining this information?  Well, first off, it is vital that you understand the information rather than just memorizing it – this may be something you heard your middle school teachers preach to you, but it really is good advice. Step #1: Identify all necessary information.  Go through your notes, your textbooks, and every powerpoint slide that teacher presented and narrow down what is impor... Read More About A Guide to the Study Guide

4 Myths About College Classes - Busted

September 25, 2012
4 Myths About College Classes - Busted

It’s no secret that as students get older, classes get harder.  Curriculums get more and more challenging as you move up the education ladder one year at a time, so graduating high school seniors will rightfully assume college classes are going to be significantly more difficult.  This is a correct assumption, but a number of myths surrounding the subject of university courses tend to take over students’ minds as well.  Here are a few myths debunked. #1: You’ll only have to take classes you’re actually interested in. The key word that makes this myth untrue is only.  Of course, when you get to coll... Read More About 4 Myths About College Classes - Busted

What You Need To Know About The AIMS Test

September 23, 2012
What You Need To Know About The AIMS Test

AIMS, or the Arizona Instrument to Measure Standards is a state-required exam for elementary, middle, and high school students. The assessment is given to insure that Arizona classrooms are fulfilling the Arizona academic standards. Public school students in grades 3-8 and 10-12 are tested in reading, writing, science, and math.  Test content depends on the grade, and corresponds to what students have learned in the classroom. All grades are tested on reading and math, while grades 5, 6, 7, and 10 must complete an additional writing portion. Only grades 4, 8, and 10 are tested on their science savvy.  The AIMS assessment is designe... Read More About What You Need To Know About The AIMS Test

Essentials Of The New STAAR Tests

September 20, 2012
Essentials Of The New STAAR Tests

The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) is a series of standardized exams used by Texas public schools students to assess students’ academic abilities.  The STAAR test is based on state standards which provide a framework for the material students should be learning in the classroom each year.  The exam measures the academic achievement and learning – in other words, to evaluate how well students are meeting Texas’ grade-level expectations.  Public school students are not the only ones required to take the STAAR assessment.  Any charter school, private school, or homeschooling that co... Read More About Essentials Of The New STAAR Tests

How To Prep For The ACT English Section

September 18, 2012
How To Prep For The ACT English Section

ACT English: 75 questions in 45 minutes First off: don’t panic.  You don’t have to memorize every last bit of English grammar in the world.  That would take far too long and be confusing in the long run.  Rather, break down your knowledge in several sections and strategies that will help you score the best you can.  Punctuation  -        Semi-colons: Used like periods in that they separate two complete sentences.  The only catch is that these sentences should be related to each other.  The most important part here is that there must be a complete sentence on e... Read More About How To Prep For The ACT English Section