The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is a national examination offered through the College Board which is designed to assess a student's potential at the college level and is required for admission to many colleges and universities (Description). SAT 1 is a three-hour test of a student's general verbal and mathematical skills, using a multiple-choice format. SAT II Subject Test which examines knowledge of specific subject areas and the ability to apply this knowledge. Only about 10 percent of SAT I takers actually take SAT II.
Each section of the SAT I is scored from 200 to 800 for a combined score of 400 to 1600 (Commission). Because of procedures used to ensure scores from different administrators of the test can be compared, it is possible to score 800 without answering any questions correctly. Neither section draws on specific knowledge of course content which is the basis for stating that the test provides an equal opportunity for students from any school to demonstrate their abilities. All questions are answerable without outside knowledge of the content. Some say this test reduces disparities between schools, but others criticize it, saying any test independent of curriculum sends a message that effort and achievement are less important that innate ability.
The SAT has been amended several times over the years to remove gender and other biases and in its current objective form should not be considered a biased examination. Bias more likely come in high school teaching of maths than in the actual SAT exam.
Commission on Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education. "The SAT." 1999. 13 Nov. 2005.
"Description of the SAT." 2003. 13 Nov. 2005.