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News from Back to Basics...Making College Choices
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Back to Basics Learning Dynamics, Inc. Newsletter
A Full-Service Educational Facility Serving
Children and Adults in DE, PA and MD
December 2008

In This Issue

Changes Ahead for the SAT

Student Showcase on.. Rhea

Employee Spotlight on...Erin Whitney Brenner


 

Changes Ahead for the SAT
SAT

In March of 2005, the SAT received a new format. The previous test was comprised of only two sections, math and verbal, each having a maximum value of 800 for a possible total score of 1600. Feeling the need to get a better assessment of students' writing abilities, a section for this was added. The current exam is comprised of sections for math, critical reading and writing. Each section still has a high score of 800 but the complete test is now based on a total of 2400.
Another change is occuring with the SAT and this deals with the reporting of scores to colleges. As of this point in time, when students select schools to receive their SAT scores, the colleges receive all their scores. A new policy will be put into place by College Board beginning with the high school class of 2010. The new procedure will allow students who take the SAT multiple times to decide how many and which scores will be sent to their choice schools. However, one restriction of the old policy will remain in tact. That is that students can not "mix and match" test scores. All scores from the same test must be sent to colleges, not math from one and writing from another.
Overall feedback from students regarding this new policy has been positive. They feel this gives them more control over their scores, in turn making the SAT less stressful and more comfortable of an experience.
In light of this change, students will be anxious to perform well and have their best SAT scores sent to their college choices. Back to Basics can help! We offer
1- on-1 instruction and small group classes for SAT test prep. Our flexible options can accommodate the busiest of high school students with sessions available seven days a week, either at your location or our center. Visit our website at www.backtobasicslearning.com for a complete description of services offered. Click the link below for additional information on this article topic.

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Choosing a College

This time of year finds many high school seniors in the midst of college applications. For those already receiving acceptances, it's decision time. What should students consider in choosing their college? Here are a few tips.

  • Type- Is focus put on undergraduate or graduate programs? Some schools with grad programs allow these students more hands- on instruction since they will soon be "out in the real wordl." Are they public or private?
  • Student Population-Larger colleges and universities may have a greater diversity of students regarding ethnic, social and financial backgrounds.
  • Majors and Requirements-If a student has chosen a career path then the college should be one that will prepare him for that particular field. If major is undeclared at present, choose a school with many options.
  • Activities/Special Programs-If there is interest in studying abroad, being editor of the newspaper or joining the dance troupe, the student should be sure that her college choice offers these opportunities.
  • Gut Feeling-Do what feels right!
  • "The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you."-B.B.King


  • Student Showcase on.. Rhea
  • teens

    This month we feature Rhea in our student showcase. Rhea is a 7th grader in our private school. She really enjoys attending classes here. When asked what she likes about the program, Rhea said that she has great interaction with her instructors. This is hard to do in a large, traditional classroom. But the 1-on-1 instruction allows for this easily. Rhea has seen a positive change in her academics. "My grades are much higher," she said.

    We asked Rhea what she would say to those considering the Back to Basics Private School program. She said she would tell them it was a very good idea. They would really like it. When she is not in class or doing homework, Rhea enjoys hanging out with her friends. We're happy to have you in our program, Rhea, and continued success to you!

  • Employee Spotlight on...Erin Whitney Brenner
  • beach with kids

    Our December spotlight reads "employee" because this month's individual is both a tutor and office staff member. Erin W. Brenner has been with Back to Basics for over 9 years, both before and after starting her family. She has a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and is a certified teacher in DE and PA. Erin instructs students in grades PreK-6 in math, general science, social studies and study skills, and PreK-8 in grammar, language arts, phonics, reading, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing as well as verbal H.S. Entrance Exam prep. In her office staff capacity, Erin manages the quality control process.

    When she's not working, Erin loves to go to the beach and local parks with her family. She also enjoys reading, hiking, and walking the dog. In spring and summer she loves to garden and grows fresh herbs and vegetables. Erin is originally from Hershey, PA. (Mmmm...chocolate land!) She resides in North Wilmington with her husband and two young sons. Thank you, Erin, for your versatility and all that you have brought to Back to Basics and continue to bring for so many years.


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    Back to Basics Learning Dynamics, Inc | 6 Stone Hill Road | Wilmington | DE | 19803