Over the past fifteen months, teachers and schools heroically adapted their instruction, using technology in innovative ways to ensure students were getting the best education possible via distance learning. The reality, however, is that there’s simply no match for in-person school. Research on LAUSD students has revealed a concerning picture: students have suffered significant learning loss as a result of Covid, creating a “Knowledge Gap” that could set students back years if it goes unaddressed. The good news? Closing this Knowledge Gap is achievable. Here are two things we recommend: IDENTIFY THE GAP: Have an earnest conversation with your student. Create a safe space for them to tell you if they feel behind in certain subjects. Ask if there were any specific classes where they found themselves distracted or drifting away from the lesson. Let your student know: this is normal! MAKE A PLAN: There are many wonderful resources out there, from online math games to instructional videos to workbooks; of course, we believe nothing compares to the effectiveness of one-on-one customized attention! At Ivy Method, our tutors can identify your child’s Knowledge Gaps and ensure they enter school next fall ahead of the curve in all of their academic subjects, from Algebra I to elementary reading to US History to sixth grade science.
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Covid-19 has caused tectonic shifts in the college admissions process. The SAT Subject Tests & Essay have been permanently eliminated, and UCs are no longer accepting SAT/ACT scores. Further, many schools have temporarily become “test optional” for the 2021-22 admissions cycle. We know how stressful this can be — but we’re here to help.
Here are Ivy Method’s top tips on how to navigate these changes:
Breathe! You’re not alone. There are many resources available to support you and your student — including us!
Rising seniors should take the SAT/ACT this fall. Though most colleges are not requiring SAT/ACT exams for the 2021-22 cycle, “test optional” is not the same as “no testing.” While colleges don’t require scores, they can be helpful if your student scores well. We suggest 11th graders prepare for the SAT/ACT over the summer & test in the fall. (Wondering which exam is right for your student? Learn more on our FAQ page.)
The College Board has eliminated SAT Subject Tests. This makes AP Exams even more important for students applying to competitive colleges. Even if your child’s high school doesn’t offer AP classes, they can still register to take the AP exams independently. Students taking AP exams independently should spend at least three months preparing with prep books or a tutor.
Colleges want kids with deep passions. Students applying to competitive schools should invest in a passion, whether it’s music, robotics, dance, Model UN, sports*, or something else. It’s vital to explore passions with institutional support from either your student’s high school or another organization. We recommend kids start this exploration during their freshman year.
The 11th grade PSAT is not a “practice” test! It is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Juniors who score well qualify as National Merit Semifinalists and have the opportunity to earn a National Merit Scholarship. If your child is a strong student, we recommend they prepare for the PSAT the summer after sophomore year.
The college process is a process of self-discovery. We suggest you start early — as early as freshman year — and have your student dig into thoughtful personal questions to determine what types of schools are a good fit for them. Fit is by far the most important element when selecting a college. We’re fans of The College Match, which contains interest inventories that can help a student identify what matters to them in a school.
College essays are WAY more important than they used to be due to the shift away from testing. We cannot emphasize this enough: START EARLY. We have our students begin their essays the week after junior year ends to give them time to write many drafts. A strong essay tells a unique, personal story about a student learning a life lesson or exploring a passion. The focus should be on the student, not on somebody else in the student’s life. Make sure the essay isn’t simply a resume rehash, and avoid cliches at all costs.
Demonstrated Interest. Colleges want to keep their matriculation rates high and thus only want to admit students who will attend. Your student should show each school that they are genuinely interested! Go on a virtual tour, see if a school has a “talk to a student” program. Go to virtual Q&A’s. In their supplemental essay and interview, students should articulate specifically why they want to attend. If your student is deferred or waitlisted, write a Letter of Continued Interest [not sure what that is? Email us].
The interview! Zoom or not, your student should be prepared! And be early. They should be dressed well and look presentable. Control the environment: don’t use a Zoom background, and instead, find a clean neutral space with no mess in the background. Ask everyone in your home for quiet during the interview. Your child should know why they want to go to that school, specifically, and should be curious and ask their interviewer questions. Send a thank you note. We strongly recommend doing a mock interview.
*A note on sports: recruiting is a very different process. Please feel free to reach out to Peyton if you’d like a little more guidance on this topic.
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