Tutoring session for SAT math prep. We used the SAT Prep book to look at math topics and do some sample algebra problems.

Introductory Session for SAT Reading/Writing section preparation. Explanation of SAT exam format/structure, pacing/timing, and numerous key test-taking strategies. Presentation of useful Web sites/programs : Manhattan Review, cracksat.net etc. Discussion of SAT JUne 6 '26 registration date. Tonight's introductory SAT prep session with Xavier was productive and informative. The structure and SAT test format were presented along with an outline of the specific content/question areas within the SAT Reading Writing section. Xavier appears to be a very respectful and pleasant young man who I look forward to working with.

We set a plan to prepare Xavier for the SAT Math, and we did some algebra review for his currenbt class.

Kaitlin completed an on-line digital practice PSAT test during today's session.

We reviewed Kaitlin's homework focused on PSAT logical transition phrases. We studied the proper use of "for example, therefore, and alternatively . "I provided instruction on how to cross check her answers by locating key elements of the passage that both precede and follow the space where the transition word is to be placed.We also discussed synonyms for the transition words eg ;therefore, consequently , as a result/ alternatively, on the other hand, by contrast.

As Kaitlin will take a full practice test using the digital platform next week, we reviewed how to use the Bluebook website of the College Board to launch and to correct the test. We then continued studying questions in the PSAT printed book on logical transitions and grammar. I provided instruction on the proper use of commas, the colon, and the placement of modifiers. We further studied how to maintain verb consistency in a passage .

We studied the proper use of transition phrases such as : Next, therefore, additionally, further, nevertheless , and however. I noted how and when these cohesion phrases could be incorporated in our English class essays. We then reviewed PSAT practice questions applying this skill. Next, we studied the note summarization questions. We addressed at length the necessity to focus on the particular question that accompanies this form of question as some questions ask to summarize differences; others ask to summarize similarities ;others ask for summaries that would be appropriate for those who have significant knowledge of the subject area.

Today Kaitlin completed practice PSAT questions on logical transitions, data interpretation , and grammar . I reviewed the use of transition phrases and continued to highlight how to check answers by reference to the passage. Regarding grammar , I reviewed the conventional use of a comma in varying circumstances and had Kaitlin identify the punctuation rule that justified her answer. She is significantly improving in her standardized testing skills .

Today ,Kaitlin completed practice PSAT questions assessing the following skills: identifying the main idea of a passage, choosing the correct and logical word to complete a sentence, and interpreting a bar graph. As we completed each question, I provided strategies for determining if the chosen answer is correct. Specifically, we noted how the correct answer often restates or simply rewords aspects of the passage. Kaitlin did very well today including multiple text questions that required significant inference skills.

Kaitlin continued completing practice PSAT exercises assessing word choice, data interpretation,and grammar. We worked on strategies to ensure that the less challenging questions were all answered correctly and practiced timely responding to such questions in order to leave time for the more challenging questions. Katlin did very well with the first tier of easier practice questions which is critical as scoring a threshold score on the easier Mod 1 questions is a prerequisite to the program generating the more difficult Mod 2 questions which , if answered correctly, can generate the better scores of above 600.