Posted October 7, 2024
Hello Northfield Families,
On Oct. 16 and 17, Northfield students in grades 9-11 will take a form of the PSAT. These assessments not only help gauge students’ readiness for future college entrance exams, but also provide valuable insight into academic areas of strength and growth. Teachers use the results to adjust instruction and address gaps in learning. For juniors, the NMSQT/PSAT also serves as a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship, opening doors to scholarship opportunities.
As many may know, the College Board shifted PSAT and SAT testing to be completely digital. The test consists of two sections: Reading and writing, which includes two parts and is 64 minutes with a total of 54 questions; mathematics, also with two parts, is 70 minutes long and consists of 44 questions.
This new format maintains the overall structure of the test while adapting to a digital environment, offering a more streamlined experience for students. It’s slightly shorter!
If you are wondering what your students should do to prepare, it is as simple as getting a good night’s rest before the exam; charging their school devices; and coming ready to do their best. Students are currently preparing for the PSAT by practicing SAT-style questions in their classes. In English, they will also explore the Bluebook platform to become familiar with the digital test format.
**Students must bring their school-issued device, fully charged, on testing day as personal devices are not permitted for the assessment.
Reina Cruz
Senior Team Lead, Assessment & Instruction
Northfield High School