Discontinuation of the SAT Essay and What It Means for Students

The SAT, a staple of American college admissions for decades, has seen significant changes over the years. One of the most recent and notable shifts was the discontinuation of the SAT Essay in 2021. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind this decision, what it means for prospective college students, and who might still encounter the essay section in their SAT journey.

The SAT Essay: A Brief Overview

The SAT Essay, previously an optional 50-minute section at the end of the test, tasked students with analyzing a given passage. The aim was to assess how the author constructed their argument using various rhetorical devices and techniques. It wasn’t about agreeing or disagreeing with the topic but about understanding the craft of the argument.

Why Was the SAT Essay Discontinued?

The College Board, the entity behind the SAT, cited several reasons for discontinuing the Essay:

• Changing Needs and Feedback: Feedback from educators, students, and other stakeholders indicated a shifting perspective on the value of the SAT Essay in college admissions.

• The COVID-19 Impact: The challenges brought about by the pandemic played a significant role. With testing dates postponed or canceled, there was a broader reevaluation of the necessity of certain test components.

• Increasing Test-Optional Policies: Many colleges and universities began to adopt test-optional admissions policies, reducing the weight of standardized tests in the admissions process. ## Who Might Still Encounter the SAT Essay?

While the general population of test-takers will no longer write the SAT Essay, there are exceptions. The College Board has made provisions for SAT School Day administrations in certain states or districts that have incorporated the SAT, including the essay, as part of their educational standards or accountability measures.

This means that in specific regions, students might still be required to tackle the essay portion as a part of their standardized testing in school.

Navigating the SAT Essay in Current Times

For the select group of students who still encounter the SAT Essay due to specific state or district requirements, preparation and understanding of this section remain crucial. The landscape of standardized testing may have shifted, but the core competencies the essay evaluates haven’t. Here’s what these students need to know and do:

Understand the Core Objective

While the format might be familiar – a persuasive passage followed by an analytical task – it’s essential to reiterate the purpose. Students aren’t asked to agree or disagree with the passage’s viewpoint. Instead, the task is to dissect how the author constructs their argument. Recognizing this distinction is crucial.

Focus on Rhetorical Analysis

Evidence and Examples: How does the author back up their claims? Look for data, statistics, anecdotes, or expert testimonies.

Logical Reasoning: How does the author bridge the gap between evidence and claims? Recognize logical connectors and cause-effect relationships.

Stylistic Elements: Pay attention to the tone, word choice, and figurative language. How do these elements enhance the author’s argument or appeal to the audience’s emotions?

Practice with Real Passages

The best way to hone essay-writing skills is through practice. Regularly reading and analyzing opinion pieces, editorials, or persuasive essays from reputable sources can be invaluable. Write practice essays and seek feedback.

Time Management

With only 50 minutes on the clock, time is of the essence. Allocate a few minutes to read and annotate the passage, around 35 minutes to write, and the remaining time to proofread and refine. Practicing under timed conditions can help students get a feel for this pacing.

Seek Resources

Numerous resources, both online and offline, are tailored for SAT Essay preparation. Study guides, sample essays, and mentor feedback can offer valuable insights into what makes an essay stand out.

What Does This Mean for Prospective College Students?

For most students, the discontinuation of the SAT Essay means one less thing to prepare for. However, it’s essential to:

• Stay Informed: Always check with your school or district to understand if you fall under the group that still needs to take the essay.

• Broaden Your Portfolio: Without the essay, consider other ways to showcase your writing and analytical skills, like personal essays, extracurricular activities, or other writing competitions.

• Stay Updated on College Requirements: Always check the specific testing requirements of colleges you’re interested in. While many have adopted test-optional policies, it’s essential to be aware of any unique guidelines.

In Conclusion

The discontinuation of the SAT Essay marks a significant shift in the landscape of college admissions testing. However, with change comes new opportunities and avenues to showcase talents and skills. As the world of higher education evolves, students should remain adaptable, informed, and proactive in their college admissions journey.