kitchen table math, the sequel

speaking of rigged...

change in SAT math scores:

Between 1996 and 2005, the average [SAT] mathematics score increased for all racial/ethnic groups. During this time, the score for Asian/Pacific Islander students increased by 22 points, from 558 to 580. Mathematics scores for White, Puerto Rican, and American Indian/Alaska Native students increased between 12 and 16 points, while Black, Mexican American, and Other Hispanic/Latino students experienced smaller increases, between 3 and 9 points. (p. 77)

no change in ACT math scores:

Unlike SAT mathematics scores, ACT mathematics scores have not increased over time. (p. 81)

geography

The majority of students who take the ACT live in the Midwest, Rocky Mountains, Plains, and southern regions of the country (ACT 2005a). The SAT is more prevalent on the east and west coasts and in the Northeast (SAT 2005a).
p. 76
Status and Trends in the Education of Racial and Ethnic Minorities
National Center for Education Statistics
September 2007

Should American parents have their kids take the ACT?

Someone I know spoke last night to an admissions person at a highly selective college.

The admissions person said that highly selective colleges here in the U.S. have been admitting numerous students from China because their resumes are so strong. Spectacular scores, spectacular grades.

Then, when the students arrive at the highly selective colleges, their professors discover that they aren't prepared and can't do the work.

What these colleges are seeing, the admissions counselor said, is "systematic cheating." Those were his words.

Another thing: these highly selective colleges have been led to believe that the Chinese government is paying full fare. But no. The students have a bit of money from the Chinese government, but nothing close to what they need, and their parents can't afford to make up the difference.

So there they are, in America, enrolled in the most selective colleges in this country. They can't do the work, and they can't pay the tuition.
  
update: no change in ACT math scores