New SAT adds essay; perfect scores less common

On September 3rd, Tamar Lewin of The New York Times tells us the College Board released a revised SAT test with a new essay component and scoring method. The new perfect score is 2400, not 1600, and now far fewer students reach their goal of acing the SAT. Lewin's article includes some examples of top scoring essays, as well.

It's about time. Mostly through my wife's professional contacts, I am acquainted with many educators. One common complaint is that young people, even those of college age, can't write well. My experience tells me grammar must not be taught as rigorously as I recall from my primary years. I often encounter shockingly bad writing, especially in email. I hope the new emphasis on writing skills in the SAT starts a trend toward focusing on basic writing, grammar and punctuation skills. I'd like to see more IT people write with proper grammar, capitalization and coherent thought - even in IM, chat and email. I don't often get that pleasure in my work today.