Non-Fiction Critical Analysis

             The article, “Should Colleges Stop Requiring the SAT/ACT?” by William C. Hiss and Wayne Camera, explains the pros and cons of having the SAT/ACTs. Hiss explains how it would be better to not have the tests because high school grades are a better predictor of college success. On the other hand, Camera explains how the standards are different at certain schools, so it would be hard for the admissions office to choose from the grades. Although William C. Hiss has good evidence as well, I agree with Wayne Camera, I think that they should keep the SATs and ACTs.

                One reason why I agree with Wayne Camera is because there are more than 35,000 public and private high schools in the U.S with huge variations, it would be impossible for the college admissions offices to be familiar with them all. Adding on, the standards for an A at one school can be different as opposed to others, which is not fair for most kids. Another example how, according to Camera, “some schools do not offer advanced placement or honor classes, which give students a chance to impress colleges. For students without these options, standardized test scores can be another way to prove themselves.” Thus helping students who wouldn’t have a chance to prove to the colleges that they are worthy enough. Furthermore, when William C. Hiss stated, “ High school grades, not test scores, are the best predictor of college success,” I did not agree with him because some students cheat on tests that were given to them in school, which made their grades better than what it should’ve been. Taking the SATs and ACTs would show the students’ true potential, and whether or not they are acceptable. Overall, I think that college standardized testing should continue because it would be extremely easier and reasonable.  

                In conclusion, I think that colleges should keep the SATs and ACTs because they are very helpful. Moreover, I thought this article was very interesting because I am planning to take the SATs in the future. In sum, colleges should keep standardized testing because it is easier and more reasonable.