Episode 4: Martha Marion’s Mathematic Mnemonics

Ted introduces Martha Marion: actor, writer, comedian, poet, and longest-tenured tutor at Ted’s company (take that Ryan!) Martha’s tutoring specialty is in translating intimidating math problems into more accessible narratives. She and Ted discuss PEMDAS, SOHCAHTOA, and whether or not it’s true that All Sexy Teachers Cook?! (5:00) Ted and Martha discuss the plausibility of using a mathematical or scientific approach on the Reading section of the test. They agree that you, as the test taker, have two jobs when confronting the SAT/ACT. (19:30) To illustrate his theory that there is a test-taking strategy out there for everyone, Ted shares a story about the lowest-scoring student he’s ever tutored. This client scored lower by answering all the math questions than he would have if he had left the answers blank. Even in this challenging case, a strategy was devised that nearly doubled the student’s score. (28:00) In honor of Marion’s visit, the Question of the Day is a math problem featuring Combinations and Permutations. (29:23) Have a question for the show? Email Ted or check out the website!

Om Podcasten

Applying to college is competitive, anxiety-provoking, and potentially the most rewarding part of high school. Since 2000, Tutor Ted has been on the front lines of getting into college through his ACT and SAT prep students, and really, since he applied to Princeton himself. In this podcast, Ted talks with admissions officers, college counselors, test prep tutors, and former clients to hear their perspective on best practices, pitfalls to avoid, and more than anything, staying sane while navigating the college admissions process. Ted promises to stick to his policy of keeping it “non-boring” too, so hopefully we’ll have some fun along the way.