SAT Prep Lesson 3 & 4

SAT Prep for Advanced ESL Students: Lesson 3 - Critical Reading Techniques

Introduction

Welcome to Lesson 3 of our SAT prep series! This lesson is designed to enhance your critical reading skills, which are essential for tackling the reading section of the SAT. We'll explore advanced techniques to analyze and interpret complex passages, identify arguments and evidence, and understand the author's purpose and tone.

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will:

• Learn advanced critical reading techniques.

• Understand how to identify and analyze arguments and evidence in passages.

• Recognize the author's purpose, tone, and perspective.

• Apply these skills to answer sample SAT critical reading questions accurately.

Warm-Up Activity

Begin with a brief review of the previous lessons. Reflect on the skimming and scanning techniques, and vocabulary strategies learned. Write a short paragraph summarizing the main points of a text you recently read, incorporating some new vocabulary words from Lesson 1.

Advanced Critical Reading Techniques

To excel in the critical reading section, it is crucial to master the following techniques:

1. Analyzing Arguments and Evidence

• Identify the main argument or claim the author is making.

• Look for evidence supporting the argument, such as statistics, examples, and expert opinions.

• Evaluate the credibility and relevance of the evidence provided.

1. Understanding the Author's Purpose and Tone

• Determine why the author wrote the passage: to inform, persuade, entertain, or explain.

• Analyze the tone of the passage: Is it formal, informal, serious, humorous, critical, or enthusiastic?

• Recognize how the author's tone and purpose influence the overall message.

1. Recognizing Bias and Perspective

• Identify any biases or perspectives the author may have.

• Consider how the author's background, experiences, and viewpoints shape the content of the passage.

1. Making Inferences and Drawing Conclusions

• Use the information provided in the passage to make logical inferences.

• Draw conclusions based on the evidence and arguments presented.

Practice Activity: Analyzing a Passage

Let’s practice these techniques with a sample passage. Follow these steps:

1. Read the passage carefully to understand the main argument and supporting evidence.

2. Analyze the author's purpose and tone by identifying key phrases and language used.

3. Identify any biases or perspectives and make inferences based on the information provided.

Sample Passage:

"The debate over climate change has intensified in recent years, with scientists presenting overwhelming evidence that human activities are contributing to global warming. Despite the clear data, some skeptics continue to question the validity of these claims. They argue that climate change is a natural phenomenon that has occurred throughout Earth's history. However, the majority of researchers agree that the current rate of change is unprecedented and largely driven by industrial activities. As global temperatures rise, the impact on ecosystems, weather patterns, and sea levels becomes increasingly severe. It is crucial for policymakers to take decisive action to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect the planet for future generations."

Questions:

1. What is the main argument presented in the passage?

2. What evidence does the author provide to support the argument?

3. What is the author's purpose in writing this passage?

4. What tone does the author use, and how does it affect the message?

5. Identify any biases or perspectives the author may have.

Analyzing the Passage

Main Argument:Human activities are contributing significantly to global warming, and it is crucial to take action to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Supporting Evidence:

• Overwhelming evidence from scientists.

• Comparison of current climate change rates to historical natural phenomena.

• Impact on ecosystems, weather patterns, and sea levels.

Author's Purpose: To inform and persuade readers about the seriousness of climate change and the need for action.

Tone: Serious and urgent, aiming to highlight the importance of addressing climate change.

Biases and Perspectives: The author is likely aligned with the scientific consensus on climate change, emphasizing the human contribution and the need for policy changes.

Vocabulary in Context

Understanding key vocabulary is essential for critical reading. Let’s identify and discuss some key vocabulary from the passage:

1. Intensified (verb): Become stronger or more severe.

2. Skeptics (noun): People who doubt or question accepted opinions.

3. Mitigate (verb): To make less severe or serious.

4. Unprecedented (adjective): Never done or known before.

Activity: Use each word in a sentence related to the passage.

Practice Questions

Apply the critical reading techniques to answer these sample SAT questions based on the passage provided.

1. What evidence does the author use to support the claim that human activities contribute to global warming?

• a) The natural occurrence of climate change throughout history

• b) Overwhelming scientific data

• c) Personal anecdotes

• d) Political opinions

1. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

• a) To entertain readers with stories about climate change

• b) To persuade skeptics to change their views

• c) To inform and persuade about the urgency of climate action

• d) To criticize policymakers for their inaction

1. Which of the following best describes the tone of the passage?

• a) Humorous

• b) Neutral

• c) Critical

• d) Urgent

1. What can be inferred about the author's perspective on climate change?

• a) The author is skeptical about human impact on climate change.

• b) The author believes climate change is not a serious issue.

• c) The author supports the scientific consensus on climate change.

• d) The author is indifferent to the effects of climate change.

Discussion and Review

Discuss your answers with a partner or in a group. Share your reasoning for each choice and clarify any doubts. This discussion will reinforce your understanding and improve your critical reading skills.

Homework Assignment

For homework, read the following passage and answer the questions that follow:

Passage:

"The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked both excitement and concern across various industries. Proponents argue that AI can revolutionize fields such as healthcare, finance, and transportation by increasing efficiency and accuracy. They point to successful implementations of AI in diagnosing diseases, predicting market trends, and optimizing traffic flow. However, critics warn of potential drawbacks, including job displacement, ethical dilemmas, and the loss of human touch. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is essential to strike a balance between harnessing its benefits and addressing its challenges to ensure a positive impact on society."

Questions:

1. What are the main arguments presented by proponents and critics of AI?

2. What is the author's purpose in writing this passage?

3. What tone does the author use, and how does it affect the message?

4. Identify any biases or perspectives the author may have.

Conclusion

Mastering critical reading techniques is vital for success on the SAT. By analyzing arguments, evaluating evidence, understanding the author's purpose and tone, and recognizing biases, you can improve your ability to interpret and respond to complex passages. Keep practicing these skills, and you’ll become more confident and prepared for the SAT reading section.

Stay tuned for Lesson 4, where we will focus on writing strategies and essay prompts. Happy studying!

SAT Prep for Advanced ESL Students: Lesson 4 - Writing Strategies and Essay Prompts

Introduction

Welcome to Lesson 4 of our SAT prep series! In this lesson, we will delve into essential writing strategies and explore effective techniques for tackling SAT essay prompts. Writing a compelling essay is a crucial component of the SAT, and mastering these strategies will help you express your thoughts clearly and persuasively.

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will:

• Understand the structure and requirements of the SAT essay.

• Learn strategies for planning, organizing, and writing a coherent essay.

• Practice responding to sample SAT essay prompts.

• Develop techniques to enhance your writing style and argumentation.

Warm-Up Activity

Begin with a quick brainstorming session. Think about a recent topic or issue that you feel strongly about. Write a brief paragraph expressing your opinion on this topic. Focus on clarity, coherence, and supporting your opinion with reasons or examples.

Understanding the SAT Essay

The SAT essay requires you to read a passage and analyze how the author builds an argument to persuade an audience. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

1. Essay Prompt Structure

• Reading Passage: You will be given a passage that presents an argument or discusses a topic.

• Task: Analyze how the author builds their argument, using evidence, reasoning, and stylistic choices.

• Length: Your essay should be about 500-700 words.

1. Scoring Criteria

• Reading: How well you understand the passage and use textual evidence.

• Analysis: How effectively you analyze the author’s argument and use evidence.

• Writing: Clarity, coherence, grammar, and language use.

Essay Planning and Organization

To write a successful essay, follow these steps:

1. Read the Passage Carefully

• Identify the author’s main argument and supporting points.

• Note any rhetorical strategies or language techniques used.

1. Plan Your Essay

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic and state your thesis or main argument.

• Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a single point, supported by evidence from the passage.

• Conclusion: Summarize your analysis and restate your thesis in a new way, emphasizing the significance of your points.

1. Writing Techniques

• Use Clear Topic Sentences: Start each paragraph with a clear point that supports your thesis.

• Incorporate Evidence: Use quotes and references from the passage to support your analysis.

• Analyze, Don’t Summarize: Focus on explaining how the author’s techniques and arguments work, rather than just summarizing the passage.

Practice Activity: Analyzing an Essay Prompt

Let’s apply these strategies to a sample essay prompt. Follow these steps:

1. Read the Prompt Carefully: Understand what is being asked of you.

2. Outline Your Essay: Plan your introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Sample Essay Prompt:

"Read the following passage carefully. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the author builds an argument to persuade the audience. Be sure to discuss the author’s use of evidence, reasoning, and stylistic or persuasive elements."

Passage Excerpt:

"In the face of growing environmental challenges, it is imperative that we rethink our approach to conservation. While some argue that economic growth and environmental protection are at odds, the reality is that sustainable development is not only possible but essential. By investing in green technologies and promoting sustainable practices, we can achieve a balance that supports both economic prosperity and environmental health. Innovations in renewable energy, conservation policies, and sustainable agriculture are crucial steps toward a future where both people and the planet thrive."

Writing Your Essay

Introduction:

• Briefly introduce the topic of conservation and sustainable development.

• State your thesis: The author argues that sustainable development is essential for balancing economic growth and environmental protection.

Body Paragraphs:

1. First Point: The use of renewable energy technologies.

• Evidence: Mention specific examples or statistics from the passage.

• Analysis: Explain how these technologies support sustainable development.

1. Second Point: Sustainable agriculture and conservation policies.

• Evidence: Reference details or quotes from the passage.

• Analysis: Discuss how these practices can benefit both the economy and the environment.

1. Third Point: The potential for economic growth through green technologies.

• Evidence: Highlight any evidence or examples provided in the passage.

• Analysis: Analyze how green technologies can drive economic growth without harming the environment.

Conclusion:

• Summarize your main points and restate your thesis.

• Emphasize the importance of sustainable development for a balanced future.

Practice Questions

Let’s test your understanding with some sample questions:

1. How does the author use evidence to support the argument in the passage?

• a) By presenting opposing views

• b) Through anecdotal stories

• c) By citing examples of green technologies and sustainable practices

• d) By describing economic theories

1. Which of the following best describes the author’s tone in the passage?

• a) Indifferent

• b) Persuasive and optimistic

• c) Critical and dismissive

• d) Formal and academic

1. What is the primary purpose of the passage?

• a) To entertain readers with stories about conservation

• b) To argue that economic growth and environmental protection are compatible

• c) To provide a historical account of environmental challenges

• d) To criticize existing environmental policies

Discussion and Review

Discuss your essay with a partner or in a group. Share your thesis, main points, and any challenges you faced while writing. Provide feedback to each other, focusing on clarity, argument strength, and use of evidence.

Homework Assignment

For homework, write an essay responding to the following prompt:

Prompt:"Read the following passage and analyze how the author builds an argument to persuade the audience. Discuss the use of evidence, reasoning, and stylistic or persuasive elements."

Passage:

"In the modern world, education is often viewed as the key to success. However, the traditional education system, with its focus on rote memorization and standardized testing, may not be the best way to prepare students for the future. Instead, a shift towards experiential learning and critical thinking is essential. By fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and collaboration, we can better equip students to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Innovative educational approaches, such as project-based learning and interdisciplinary studies, are proving to be effective in developing these skills."

Conclusion

Developing strong writing skills is crucial for the SAT essay. By understanding the structure, planning your essay, and practicing critical writing techniques, you can effectively analyze and argue any topic presented. Keep honing these skills, and you’ll be well-prepared to write compelling essays on test day.

Stay tuned for Lesson 5, where we will explore math problem-solving strategies and practice with sample questions. Keep up the great work, and happy studying!