Introduction:
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that is required for admission to many graduate programs in the United States and Canada. The test is designed to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
In 2019, the GRE underwent a major overhaul, with changes to the scoring system, question format, and content. Some experts have expressed concerns that these changes could have a negative impact on students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
One of the most significant changes to the GRE is the new scoring system. Under the old system, students received a total score of 260-340, with a verbal reasoning section score of 130-170, a quantitative reasoning section score of 130-170, and an analytical writing section score of 0-6. The new system eliminates the subscores, and instead gives students a single, scaled score of 130-170.
Another major change is the question format. The old GRE used a variety of question types, including multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and quantitative comparison questions. The new GRE uses only multiple-choice questions, and the number of questions in each section has been reduced.
[Learn more: How to Prepare Your Mind for the GRE Exam]
The content of the GRE has also been changed. The old GRE focused on a narrow range of topics, such as basic math, vocabulary, and grammar. The new GRE covers a broader range of topics, including data analysis, problem solving, and critical thinking.
These changes have led some experts to worry that the GRE will become more difficult and less accessible to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. They argue that the new scoring system will make it harder for students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, and that the new question format will favor students who have had more exposure to standardized tests. They also worry that the new content will be more difficult for students who have not had the opportunity to take advanced math and science courses.
However, other experts argue that the changes to the GRE are necessary to make the test more relevant to the demands of graduate school. They argue that the new scoring system will provide a more accurate measure of student ability, and that the new question format will be more challenging and engaging. They also argue that the new content will better prepare students for the rigors of graduate school.
Ultimately, the impact of the new GRE changes on students is still unknown. However, it is important for students to be aware of the changes and to prepare accordingly. If you are planning to take the GRE, be sure to research the new test and to practice with tips to improve your GRE score. You can also find resources to help you prepare for the GRE on the website of the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Some expert opinions on the new GRE changes:
Martha Kanter, president of the College Board: "The changes to the GRE are a positive step forward. The new test will be more relevant to the demands of graduate school and will better measure the skills that students need to succeed."
Douglas Becker, president of Kaplan Test Prep: "The changes to the GRE are a mixed bag. On the one hand, the new test will be more relevant to the demands of graduate school. On the other hand, the new test will be more difficult and less accessible to students from disadvantaged backgrounds."
Eric Kaplan, founder and CEO of Magoosh: "The changes to the GRE are a step in the right direction. The new test will be more challenging and engaging, and it will better prepare students for the rigors of graduate school."
Conclusion:
The new GRE changes are a significant departure from the old test. It is still too early to say what the impact of these changes will be on students. However, it is important for students to be aware of the changes and get top coaching for GRE exam. If you are planning to take the GRE, be sure to research the new test and to practice with the new question format.
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