<p>IF you looked at the CB data regarding scores kids get in subsequent test administrations (at least at the data 5 years ago when I last searched the CB site. It may be gone now!) one could easily see how these test prep companies get away with their claims. Statistically, most kids have a rise in scores. And if you look at the distribution in score rise, quite a few have these 100 point jumps. Some, although far fewer, have 100 point drops. And the biggest changes are between spring jr year and fall senior year.</p>
<p>The biggest reason for these jumps, most test professionals believe, is not experience with the test or coaching, just maturity and the learning that goes on at this age. So, if one assumes that there is even a small coachable element in the tests, then the coachable element coupled with time makes ofr a can’t lose combination for these test prep folks, especially when their downside in only to let the kid repeat the course (like there’s time to do so fall of senior year…)</p>