We’ve all heard that the SAT is changing, but what will this actually mean as you help your TXGU students prepare? (Glad you asked!) The College Board released insider information on the format and philosophy behind the new SAT vocabulary test—and it’s not only seemingly more practical, but also super helpful to you.

Do you remember taking the SAT yourself and memorizing a million words that you’d never use in a sentence on the off chance that they’d appear on the test? (We certainly do.) Part of the new vocabulary makeover will instead test on “high utility” words that are necessary and legitimately of frequent usage in standard communication. 


Image via TIME magazine

It’s not just a matching game of word to definition—it will actually require a deep understanding of words and their definitions based on context. So put this information in your pocket and use it as you help prep your TXGU students for success on the new SAT. (Making its big debut in 2016.)