An Approach to SAT Vocabulary
The College Board has explicitly stated that the SAT assesses Tier 2 academic words—these are high-utility words found across various disciplines.
1. The Question Bank Word List
In this tool, you will find an essential SAT Vocabulary Word List designed to help you excel in the word-in-context skill.
Why Is This Word List Important?
The College Board emphasizes words that are commonly found in reading passages but are not highly specialized. This list reflects the vocabulary patterns observed in SAT questions.
How Should You Use This List?
To maximize your learning, follow these steps:
- Identify Your Knowledge Level: Classify words into three categories:
- Easy: Words you already know and can skip.
- Medium: Words you recognize but should practice using in sentences.
- Hard: Words that are unfamiliar and require thorough study.
2. College Board PSAT & SAT Questions
Why Should I Bother Answering PSAT Questions Dedicated to Grade 9 & 10?
When preparing for the SAT, many students focus primarily on high-level practice questions, often overlooking the importance of earlier assessments like the PSAT. However, answering PSAT questions dedicated to grades 9 and 10 can provide a strong foundation, particularly in vocabulary development.
The Importance of Tier 2 Academic Words
The College Board has explicitly stated that the SAT assesses Tier 2 academic words—these are high-utility words found across various disciplines. These words appear in texts ranging from grade 9 to the first year of university, making them crucial for comprehension and effective communication.
By engaging with vocabulary questions from PSAT levels (grades 9 and 10), alongside those from grades 11 and 12, you can ensure they are covering the widest possible range of Tier 2 words. This exposure not only enhances their SAT performance but also strengthens their overall reading and writing skills for college and beyond.
How Answering Grade 9 & 10 PSAT Questions Helps You
Builds a Strong Vocabulary Base – Early exposure to Tier 2 words makes it easier to recognize and understand them in later, more complex texts.
Improves Contextual Understanding – PSAT vocabulary questions often require students to determine word meanings based on context, a skill that is directly tested on the SAT.
Enhances Reading Comprehension – A robust vocabulary allows students to grasp nuanced meanings in passages, leading to better comprehension and analysis.
Reinforces Retention Through Repetition – Encountering these words across multiple grade levels solidifies their meanings and usage.
Maximizing Your Preparation
To get the most out of your SAT preparation, consider incorporating PSAT questions into your study routine. Work through vocabulary-focused questions from all high school levels and practice using new words in writing and speaking. This strategic approach ensures comprehensive coverage of Tier 2 vocabulary and prepares you for success on test day.
By answering PSAT 9 and 10 questions, you are giving yourself an chance to master essential vocabulary, making the SAT significantly more manageable.
2.1 College Board Question Bank, PSAT #9 Vocabulary – All Levels & Answer Key
Answer Key
2.2 College Board Question Bank, PSAT #10 Vocabulary – All Levels & Answer Key
Answer Key
2.3 SAT #11 Vocabulary Questions – Question Bank
Answer Key