For high schoolers who plan to take the SAT subject test in literature, the volume of vocabulary that is directly and indirectly assessed can feel daunting. Quickly reading passages without sacrificing comprehension, as well as gleaning the meaning of vocabulary words from context, can challenge even the most astute of students. Given that the ideal time to take an SAT subject test is immediately following the conclusion of your junior or senior year of high school literature, this is especially true for students who are taking the exam in the fall.
So how can you best strengthen your contextual reading skills for vocabulary success? Consider these five tips.
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1. Search for clues before and after the word in question: When answering “words in context” items, do not simply review the specific term in question — look before and after it, searching for words that may be synonyms or antonyms. In many cases, there will be clues in close proximity. For example, a phrase about crustaceans may reference crabs and lobsters, leading you to conclude that crustaceans are animals.
Seek out these clues for additional information about what the word might mean. Remember, too, that you may encounter secondary or less commonly used definitions, rather than the primary explanation for a term.
2. Take note of transition words: Transition words function as the skeleton of an argument, and they can be powerful guides on test day as to what certain terms mean in context.
For example, the phrase “for instance” clearly states that the reader will soon encounter evidence or an example that supports a previous point. “However” implies a contrast. “Therefore” suggests that we are approaching a conclusion. Using these transition words can lead you to additional clues about a word’s meaning.
3. Review class vocabulary: As you prepare for the exam, do not skimp when it comes to reviewing words that you have discussed in high school English classes, especially if you have a habit of learning vocabulary at the last moment or struggle with long-term retention.
Furthermore, do not simply look at or write down definitions — go further in your preparation. Create a list of commonly occurring terms and then write your own sentences with the words you are trying to learn to gain practice with their usage.
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4. Revisit literary terminology: Pay particular attention to literary terms during your review. If you have forgotten the difference between a simile and a metaphor, for example, you may struggle on the SAT literature subject test. Terms like “alliteration,” “juxtaposition ” and “personification” may appear in reading passages or answer choices, so be certain to jot down examples from literature or your own imagination as you review.
5. Read a variety of materials: Vocabulary flashcards can be helpful, but learning vocabulary in its natural context can be even more useful. Reading is an act that we frequently engage in, but the more words we do not know in a given passage, the harder it becomes to work around these unknowns.
Reading from a variety of sources can help. While you should read both poetry and prose to prepare for the exam, focus on drama and essays as well. The SAT literature subject test assess all four forms, and each uses vocabulary in a specific way.
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If you have questions about the general nature of the SAT literature subject test, review the information that the College Board provides on its website. It is critical to have clear expectations for how the exam will assess your knowledge, since this may assist you in developing a comprehensive plan for vocabulary review.
Although the exam is a mere 60 minutes long, you are expected to answer roughly 60 questions. Any confusion over a given term can rob you of the precious seconds you require to earn a competitive score.
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Master Contextual Reading Skills for SAT Literature Subject Test originally appeared on usnews.com
