Writing Matters: New SAT® Validity Studies To Be Released in June
In June, the College Board will release new research that emphasizes the importance of writing skills for success in college. These validity studies show that the writing section, combined with high school grades, makes the SAT® an even better predictor of college success. These studies are based on data from 150,000 students (the first cohort of test-takers to take the new SAT) and about 110 colleges.
The studies will also reveal that the writing section is also the
best predictor of college success among the three SAT test sections for all ethnic groups, demonstrating that writing is a consistent and fair predictor of college performance. “The writing section allows some kids to shine who wouldn’t have on the old test,” says Wayne Camara, vice president of research and development at the College Board.
Writing has always been an important part of college studies, but it is becoming increasingly important in the K-12 curriculum, too. A 2006 College Board survey found that the SAT writing section is contributing to an increased focus on writing skills in high school classrooms. This will likely strengthen student performance in school, college and life beyond.
