Digital SAT International 2024 December Test: Reddit Guide and Discussion

Test day jitters? We've got your back. Whether you're a first-time test-taker or looking to boost your score, this breakdown unpacks everything you need to know about the most recent Digital SAT. From tricky vocabulary challenges to strategic math approaches, we'll walk you through the must-know details that can make or break your test performance.

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Vocabulary

Understanding the context of vocabulary words is crucial. Here are some key words that appeared in the test, along with their meanings:

• Placated: To make someone less angry or hostile; to pacify.
• Unsympathetic: Not feeling or showing approval or favor toward an idea or action.
• Eclipse (as a verb): To surpass or outshine someone or something.
• Augment: To make something greater by adding to it; to increase.
• Cite: To refer to something as evidence or justification.
• Vindicate: To clear someone of blame or suspicion; to prove right.
• Disquieting: Causing feelings of anxiety or worry.
• Idiosyncratic: Peculiar or individual; unique to an individual.
• Elicited: Evoked or drew out a response or reaction.
• Wrought by: Created or caused by.
• Incongruous with: Not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other aspects.

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Reading Passages

The reading section covered a diverse range of topics. Here are the major passages and their key points:

1. King Arthur Historical Sources

Summary: Comparison of different historical accounts of King Arthur, including works by Geoffrey of Monmouth and Thomas Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur.

Key Point: Geoffrey did not have access to certain information about the Round Table when writing his account.

2. Fungus and Root Transfer Study

Summary: Exploration of how fungal networks facilitate communication and nutrient transfer between plants.

Key Point: Fungal networks play a crucial role in root-to-root transfers among plants.

3. Mammals and Fish Responding to Human-Made Noise

Summary: Study on the effects of anthropogenic noises on different species, highlighting variations between mammals and fish.

Key Point: Different species respond differently to human-made noises due to biological and behavioral factors.

4. Robotics and Human Preferences

Summary: Examination of human aesthetic preferences in robots and how design impacts user interaction.

Key Point: Human preferences are influenced by both functional and aesthetic aspects of robot design.

5. Art Ratings: Realistic vs. Cubist Paintings

Summary: Participants rated different styles of art to assess preferences.

Key Point: Contrary to assumptions, some participants showed a preference for cubist paintings over realistic ones.

6. Brand Extension Products Study

Summary: Investigation into how consumers recognize and accept brand extensions.

Key Point: Recognition varies between extended and non-extended product branches.

7. Olmec Language Origins

Summary: Discussion on the origins of the Olmec language and its connections to other Mesoamerican languages.

Key Point: There are significant links between the Olmec language and other regional languages, suggesting cultural exchanges.

8. Elephant Behavior Study

Summary: Observations of elephants and their responses to environmental changes.

Key Point: Elephants exhibit adaptive behaviors that are significant for their survival.

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Grammar and Transitions

Proper grammar and the use of transition words are essential for clear communication. Here's what was highlighted:

Transition Words

• Indeed: Used to emphasize a statement or point.
• In Addition: Adds information to a previous point.
• Hence: Indicates a consequence or result.
• That Said vs. That Is:
  • That Said: Contrasts with the previous statement.
  • That Is: Clarifies or restates a point.

Grammar Highlights

• Apostrophe Use and Possessives: Place apostrophes correctly to show ownership (e.g., "the cat's toys" vs. "the cats' toys").
• Comma Usage: Use commas to separate items in a list, after introductory phrases, or to set off nonessential information.
• Sentence Structure:
  • Ensure sentences are not run-ons.
  • Use proper conjunctions to connect ideas.
• Verb Tense Consistency: Maintain the same tense throughout a passage unless indicating a change in time.

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Notes

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Math Sections

The math section was divided into two modules, with Module 2 being more challenging.

Module 1 Topics

• Basic Algebra and Geometry:
  • Solving equations and inequalities.
  • Understanding geometric shapes and their properties.
• Function Questions:
  • Evaluating functions.
  • Interpreting function notation.
• System of Equations:
  • Solving for variables using substitution or elimination methods.

Sample Questions from Module 1

1. Line Intersection Problem

Concept: Understanding angle relationships when two parallel lines are intersected by a transversal.

Key Point: Angle p is greater than angle j due to their positions.

2. Circle Equation Problem

Equation: \( x^2 + 12x + y^2 - 18y - 39 = 0 \).

Task: Find the circumference of the circle.

Solution: Complete the square to find the radius and then calculate the circumference.

Module 2 Topics (Harder Module)

• Complex Function Problems:
  • Manipulating and simplifying complex expressions.
• Circle Geometry with Inscribed Triangles:
  • Applying properties of circles and triangles to find missing measures.
• Quadratic Equations:
  • Solving quadratics by factoring, using the quadratic formula, or completing the square.
• Exponential Functions:
  • Understanding growth and decay models.
• Ratio and Proportion Problems:
  • Solving problems involving direct and inverse proportions.
• Word Problems Involving Percentages:
  • Applying percentage formulas to real-world scenarios.

Sample Questions from Module 2

1. Function Problem

Given: \( 4x^2(x + 4) - 4(x + 4)^3 \).

Task: Factor the expression.

Approach: Factor out common terms and simplify.

2. Exponential Growth Problem

Scenario: A beekeeper starts with 1,500 bees, with the population growing exponentially.

Task: Develop a formula to model the bee population over time.

Solution: Use the exponential growth formula \( P(t) = P_0 \times r^{t} \).

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Scoring Predictions

Based on the discussions, here's a general idea of expected scores:

• High Scores (1450-1500 Range):
  • Missing 3-5 questions in total.
  • Strong performance in both modules.
• Mid Scores (Around 1400):
  • Missing around 6-7 questions.
  • Moderate performance, with some difficulties in Module 2.
• Scores Below 1400:
  • Missing more than 7 questions.
  • Challenges in both reading and math sections.

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Final Thoughts

Preparing for the SAT requires a thorough understanding of various topics and the ability to apply concepts under time constraints. The December 2024 test highlighted the importance of adaptability and critical thinking, especially with the introduction of more complex math problems and challenging reading passages.

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