Preparing for college entrance tests
For some high school students that still value higher level of education in universities and colleges, preparing for âentrance or admission testsâ may occupy time. The idea behind admission tests is to measure the aptitude of the students for the academic environment they wish to enter. Most of the time, admission tests cover questions on mathematical skills, language proficiency, general knowledge, and logical reasoning. Other sets of question can be asked by the school. Since they are a lot of topics that can be included, how can students âprepareâ for college entrance tests? This post briefly discusses some of the things you need to consider in taking admission tests. Most of the ideas here come from my personal experience. While other suggestions highlight "tipsâ (e.g. vocabulary building, algebra review, abstract reasoning sample tests), my discussion focuses on the everyday preparation.
1. Read newspapers. Broadsheet newspapers offer new words for your vocabulary. Instead of investing on expensive âvocabulary builderâ books, newspapers instantly engage you with words that are used in everyday conversation. This does not only give you new terms to memorize but new words to refer to your concepts (this is more important by the way). Do not limit yourself by reading the news reports. Always try to read editorial pieces or op-ed columns. These articles give you analysis and commentary.
2. Walk around bookstores. Bookstores can give you information about authors and classical books. Bookstores can familiarize you with popular classics and contemporary local and foreign authors. You donât need to buy them. The purpose is for you to find interesting stories. General knowledge section may include questions on authors of particular novels or famous characters in prominent plays.
3. Make friends with âweird or nerdâ classmates. They might not be weird at all. They might be just very interested on very particular topics (e.g. physics invention, music, films, etc.) Aside from having more friends, befriending them lets you widen your knowledge on additional topics you find no interest at first. Always remember that entrance tests do not depend on your stock knowledge or preferred topics. On the other hand, you may also choose a particular topic or interest where you can focus your leisure time.
4. Watch game shows on general knowledge. Here, âWho wants to be a millionaire?,â âJeopardy!,â and âPilipinas, Game KNB?â are of great help. These game shows not only entertain you; they give you general interest on things. This entry is self-explanatory. Unfortunately, Philippine TV channels seem to stop showcasing these kinds of programs.
5. Use YouTube. In case you have difficulties understanding your math and chemistry lessons in class, always remember that YouTube is not only designed for cat videos, K-pop performances, and Marvel fight scenes. You can access student-friendly tutorials here about physics and other high school science lessons. Apart from discussing the core topics, online videos may also provide you with real-life examples so you can appreciate the lessons more. Of course, you should not stop on watching videos; you must go beyond by asking the âwhyâsâ of the processes. Sometimes, try to be a âscientist.â ;-)
6. Borrow used reviewers. I believe that thereâs no such thing as âold reviewers.â The idea behind here is that used reviewers have the same principles in their questions. Examples and particular givens change but the reasoning behind solving the questions stay the same. Sometimes, entrance tests repeat some questions from previous examinations.
7. Pray. You know what this means. Spiritual guidance from God gives you peace and wisdom.
I hope you find my discussion relevant. Again, these are all just based on my personal experience. Timing is also crucial. I do not believe that there can only be particular schedule for reviews and intellectual activities. Every season is an opportunity to learn.