Dear Parents/ Guardians,
On Wednesday, March 1, 2017, O.L. Smith eighth graders will be taking the PSAT 8/9. Designed for eighth and ninth graders, the PSAT 8/9 will reflect the knowledge and skill areas tested by the redesigned SAT, the PSAT/NMSQT, and the PSAT 10. On the redesigned assessments,
students will encounter:
- Continued emphasis on reasoning alongside a clearer, stronger focus on the knowledge, skills, and understandings most important for college and career readiness and success.
- Greater emphasis on the meaning of words in a variety of contexts and on how word choice shapes meaning, tone and impact.
- Focus on math that matters most, including problem-solving, data analysis, algebra and advanced mathematical concepts.
- Rights-only scoring (a point for a correct answer but no deduction for an incorrect answer; blank responses have no impact on scores).
The assessment comprises of three tests and includes 2 hours and 45 minutes of actual testing time, 15 minutes of breaks, and approximately 30 to 35 minutes of administration time. Students will be tested in the following areas: reading, math, language and writing.
We do not have enough school calculators for all students. If your child has access to a graphing or scientific calculator, please send it to school with him/her on the day of testing.
By working together, we can make your child’s test experience positive and successful. Here are some suggestions that you can do to help your child succeed:
- Make sure your child gets a good night’s rest.
- Have your child eat a healthy breakfast at home or in the cafeteria at school.
- Make sure your child arrives at school on time.
- Encourage your child to do their best.
If you have any questions about the PSAT 8/9 tests, please feel free to contact me, Mrs. Kobeissi or your child’s teacher at (313) 827-2800.
Sincerely,
Mr. Sean A. Fisher Sr.
Principal