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Contents
PART I
Introduction
All About the SAT Literature Test
The SAT Literature Test is one of the Subject Tests offered by the College Board. The test is a one-hour exam consisting of approximately 60 multiple-choice questions. It is designed to measure how well you have learned to read and interpret literature.
The SAT Subject Tests (formerly known as the SAT II Tests or Achievement Tests) are the lesser-known counterpart to the SAT, offered by the same organizationthe College Board. While the SAT covers general verbal, writing, and mathematical reasoning skills, the SAT Subject Tests cover specific knowledge in a variety of subjects, including English, mathematics, history, science, and foreign languages. SAT Subject Tests are only one hour long and thus are significantly shorter than the SAT. Furthermore, you can choose which SAT Subject Tests to take and how many (up to three) to take on one test day, but you cannot register for both the SAT and the SAT Subject Tests on the same test day.
The SAT Literature Test usually includes six to eight literary texts. Each text is followed by a set of questions based on that text. The test covers the topics shown in the table:
The SAT Literature Test measures not only how well you understand the subject matter of each text, but also how well you understand specific literary concepts, such as theme, genre, tone, and characterization. You may be asked about the structure and organization of a text, or you may be asked about the authors use of narrative voice. You may also be asked about syntax, diction, vocabulary, and the authors use of figurative language, including imagery. You should be familiar with these concepts from your English and language arts classes.
When determining which SAT Subject Tests to take and when to take them, consult your high school guidance counselor and pick up a copy of the Taking the SAT Subject Tests bulletin published by the College Board. Research the admissions policies of colleges to which you are considering applying to determine their SAT Subject Test requirements and the average scores students receive. Also, visit the College Boards web site to learn more about which tests are offered (www.collegeboard.org).
Use this book to become familiar with the content, organization, and level of difficulty of the SAT Literature Test. Knowing what to expect on the day of the test will allow you to do your best.
When to Take the Test
For the SAT Literature Test, the College Board simply recommends that you have as much experience as possible in reading and carefully analyzing a variety of American and British literary works from different historical periods and in different genres. The more texts you have read and closely studied, the better prepared you will be. Note, however, that there is no specific reading list for the test, so you cannot know beforehand which literary works you will encounter on the exam you take.
Many students take the SAT Literature Test at the end of their junior year or at the beginning of their senior year. If you are unsure when you should take this exam, consult your teacher or school counselor.
Colleges look at SAT Subject Test scores to see a students academic achievement, because the test results are less subjective than are other parts of a college application, such as grade point average, teacher recommendations, student background information, and the interview. Many colleges require at least one SAT Subject Test score for admission, but even schools that do not require SAT Subject Tests may review your scores to get an overall picture of your qualifications. Colleges may also use SAT Subject Test scores to enroll students in appropriate courses. If English is your strongest subject, then a high SAT Literature score, combined with good grades on your transcript, can convey that strength to a college or university.