SAT Vocab (TES)

The following excerpt is from a recent edition of Time magazine.

"A redesigned SAT due out in the spring of 2016 will no longer reward students for the rote memorization of semi-obscure word definitions, but instead emphasize "high utility" words they're more likely to encounter in life."

The TES pedagogy for teaching vocabulary observes and demonstrates the theory behind this modification. Moreover, TES enriches language ability within the existing SAT simply because it is an effective learning and retention strategy. We do not train with memorization drills. We do not flash word cards. We train in context. We reinforce learning with reiteration in other contexts. This is an effortless method to increase terminology and enhance contextual, and overall, understanding.

TES develops student exam skills in three areas: Critical Reading; Writing; and the Essay. While an extensive vocabulary is a decisive factor for high scores on Critical Reading—and this is our focus—word knowledge also applies to Writing. In addition, each TES passage is a self-contained unit that employs the most vital elements of the written essay.


Critical Reading

TES takes scalpel to and explores the subtle distinctions of a text’s semantics. It offers a wealth of words in a variety of frameworks, and in each instance that the targeted word appears we provide the meaning specific to that context. Previously, a student might know the definition of a “high-utility” word but not the applied meaning. To better understand this concept, consider the underlined word in the first sentence of this paragraph.

As used above, "wealth" most nearly means…
a. a large amount of money or possessions
b. a large amount or number
c. capital

Each answer is a definition of "wealth." However, the upcoming exam requires a distinction to be made between definitions. This approach demands greater thought. TES compositions and featured quizzes spark fresh neural pathways. Critical thinking blooms.


Writing

Indirectly and subconsciously TES improves sentence structure and grammar skills. The majority of students who enter school with proper grammar did not hitherto study rules. They learned by reading and by listening to those around them who spoke correct English. Our passages engage the same reading tactic. Students develop an inner ear and instinctively recognize what is accurate and what is not.


The Essay

A well-constructed paragraph is an essay in abbreviated format. Its topic sentence corresponds to a thesis. Subsequent sentences develop the topic sentence with details and examples. It must be organized and coherent. It must include expressive vocabulary. These are the criteria by which examiners evaluate an essay. TES passages illustrate the characteristics of a successful essay. The basics need only be expanded for a 25 minute composition.

Knowledge is not an arduous task. It is a natural path. Discover TES!