Key Strategies for SAT Math Success

Mar 9, 2025

Mindmap

SAT Math Section Overview

The presentation covers six key lessons in preparation for the SAT math section. Each lesson is designed to focus on essential math topics and problem-solving techniques.

Lesson 1: Algebra

  • Solving Equations

    • Techniques for adding, subtracting, and factoring equations.
    • Properties of exponents:
      • Multiplying bases: add exponents (e.g., (x^3 \times x^4 = x^7)).
      • Raising a power to another power: multiply exponents (e.g., ((x^3)^4 = x^{12})).
      • Dividing bases: subtract exponents (e.g., (x^9/x^2 = x^7)).
      • Fractional exponents and radicals (e.g., (x^{5/3}) is the cube root of (x^5)).

  • Evaluating Functions

    • Substituting values into functions.
    • Working with composite functions and functions of multiple variables.

  • Factoring

    • Techniques for factoring polynomials.
    • Recognizing difference of squares and perfect square trinomials.

  • Absolute Value Equations

    • Understanding how to solve equations with absolute values.

  • Working with Fractions

    • Adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions.
    • Simplifying complex fractions.

Lesson 2: Word Problems and Equations

  • Converting Sentences into Equations

    • Translating word problems into mathematical equations.
    • Understanding terms such as 'sum', 'product', 'difference', and 'more than/less than'.

  • Average, Ratios, and Proportions

    • Calculating average values.
    • Solving problems involving ratios and proportions.

Additional Math Concepts

  • Consecutive Integers

    • Identifying patterns in consecutive numbers, both even and odd.
    • Differentiating between whole, natural numbers, and integers.

  • Distance, Rate, and Time

    • Using (D = RT) (Distance = Rate \times Time) to solve problems.

Practice Problems

  • Multiple-choice problems covering equations, inequalities, factoring, and function evaluation.
  • Emphasis placed on solving problems independently before checking solutions.

Study Strategies

  • Pause and attempt each problem before viewing the solution.
  • Regular practice with multiple choice problems enhances understanding and prepares students for the SAT format.

Conclusion

  • The presentation provides a foundational review of algebra and problem-solving strategies essential for achieving success in the SAT math section. Each lesson builds on fundamental math concepts needed to tackle a broad range of SAT problems.