Inside the SAT/ACT and PSAT

Copyright: KBkids.com

The Learning Company has recently updated and re-released its Inside the SAT/ACT and PSAT under the Princeton Review label. While families who purchased the original may not want to re-invest, this is enough of an upgrade to warrant making sure you are purchasing the latest version if you are a first-time buyer.

This program will appeal to teens, with it's humor and cartoon backdrop. Kids who are used to computer 'games' and need an extra push may do better with Score Builder for the SAT, which has a flashier layout. This program is the best choice for serious students who want to have fun, but don't need Score Builder's 'edutainment' format. The new version includes several important upgrades:

Aside from these changes, the program remains basically intact. The tutorial takes place within a school setting, with cute cartoon sketches making up the scenery. Different rooms deal with different portions of the test. BReal life video clips of teenagers are incorporated into the tutorialEB which testers particularly liked. They pop in from time to time to give your child tips on test taking, and specific academic sections. The Bemphasis on test taking tipsEB is wonderful. Half the battle of doing well on these tests is becoming a good 'test taker.' Kids love tricks and shortcuts. They will be taught many great ideas for doing better on either test. For instance, they are taught to eliminate clearly wrong answers first when they are unsure which answer to choose, and how to do well on the analogy portion of the test (a sore spot for many). There is a great you can do this attitude throughout.

Bottom Line: One of the best test prep programs around. Will appeal to kids who are serious about the test, want to have fun, but don't require a 'gaming' atmosphere.

Ratings: (based on KBkids.com's 4 star rating system)

Overall: 4

BrainGain: 4

FunFactor: 3

EasePlease: 3 1/2

Buy The Princeton Review: Inside the SAT/ACT and PSAT Deluxe at Amazon!

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