
Packer also announced a schedule for the exams that has many students scheduled to take the exams between midnight and 6 AM. There was, however, a jarring disconnect between two aspects of the testing that he referred to frequently –the welfare of students, on the one hand, and on the other hand, the strict time limitations proposed for the exams – 45 minutes for most, and 25 minute and 15-minute sections for others. You can point out areas that need revision, but don’t rewrite or edit-the essay must be the student's work.Īnd remember: Your encouragement, ideas, and overall support will go a long way.On April 2nd, the College Board released the AP 2020 Exam Updates in a webinar presentation by Trevor Packer.
Give general feedback on a finished or nearly finished essay. Look over the student’s essay for signs that a parent “helped” too much. Recommend brainstorming techniques that help them face the blank page. Suggest they get advice from teachers who understand the role of the essay and who know them well. Here are some appropriate ways to help your students: This can cause counselors to wonder how much help is too much help. Many colleges even ask applicants to sign statements saying that the essays they’ve submitted are their own work. Is it succinct? Did the student pay attention to the recommended length?Ī common concern for admissions officers is just how much help a student has received with their essay. Does it contain correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling?. Did the student use effective word choice, syntax, and structure?. Does it have a natural style that’s comfortable for the student and appropriate for the subject matter?. Does it put forth a comprehensive argument or narrative? Does the student make a point and stick to it?. Does it have a strong opening paragraph that captures the readers’ interest?. Does the essay provide a direct answer to the essay question?. Advise your students to check their essays against these criteria: What Is a Well-Written Essay?Īdmissions officers read a lot of essays, and a well-written one can make a refreshing change. They can show their commitment to learning and their eagerness to contribute to the college community. Students can also use the essay to show that they’ve thought carefully about why they’re a good match for the college they’re applying to. This is especially true for selective colleges. What the Essay Can Do for StudentsĪ powerful, well-written essay can make the difference, tipping the balance in the writer’s favor when colleges have to choose between applicants with similar qualifications. You can demystify the essay for your students. It can also be one of the more nerve-wracking parts of the application process. The essay is an opportunity for students to personalize their college application beyond grades and scores. College Board Electronic Discussion Groups. COLLEGE BOARD APPS PROFESSIONAL
College Board Professional Opportunities. International Admissions Symposium and University Fair.
Summer Institute for International Counselors at NYU. International Professional Development Events. Summer Institute on College Admission and School Relations. Michigan SAT Suite Implementation Workshops. Professional Development for Higher Education. Community Colleges and Student Search Service. The Initiative on Transfer Policy and Practice. Office of Community College Initiatives.
Taking a Stand: Higher Education Leadership for the 21st Century. Beyond Federal Law: State Voter Initiatives and Their Consequences. Getting from Here to There: Managing the Process of Policy Change. Financial Aid and Scholarships: Exploring Key Strategies for Achieving Success. Admission: Exploring Key Strategies for Achieving Success. Making Connections: A Holistic View of Key Strategies. Mythbusters: Correcting Common Misunderstandings. Key Terms and Concepts: Knowing the Basics. Access and Diversity: Related but Distinct Concepts. The Diversity Imperative: The Compelling Case. Parents Involved in Community Schools v. Regents of the University of Michigan et al Coalition to Defend Affirmative Action et al. Future Admissions Tools and Models Initiative. The College Board's Net Price Calculator. Past Campaign: Realize Your College Potential.