Snooki and the SAT

By now you’ve probably heard that many students were outraged by this recent essay prompt on the SAT:

“Reality television programs, which feature real people engaged in real activities rather than professional actors performing scripted scenes, are increasingly popular. These shows depict ordinary people competing in everything from singing and dancing to losing weight, or just living their everyday lives. Most people believe that the reality these shows portray is authentic, but they are being misled. How authentic can these shows be when producers design challenges for the participants and then editors alter filmed scenes?

“Do people benefit from forms of entertainment that show so-called reality, or are such forms of entertainment harmful?”

Several students felt this was an unfair question because it assumes that they watch reality television shows. While we here at My Colleges and Careers don’t recommend spending countless hours watching reality television, we do support the prompt for these reasons:

1. This question can be answered without ever having watched TV. The prompt does not specify any particular reality television show so anything from “Jersey Shore” to “Groomer Has It” -a show for finding the best dog groomer- qualifies.

2. The question presents possible arguments. Even if you’ve never participated in an “America’s Next Top Model” marathon, the question is made fair by pointing out possible arguments as to why this sort of filming may not actually be “reality.”

3. Even if you don’t watch the shows, you should have an understanding of how television can benefit or harm society. You should be able to make a statement, or even an argument about something featured so prominently in our society.

4. This question caters to the well-rounded. Colleges and universities are often seeking students that will bring something extra to the school, aside from their excellent mathematic brain. This question allows students to talk about something that is relevant today and encourages students to take part in the world around them.

5. Reality television sparks conversation. You may hate it, you may love it. Either way there is constantly a dialog happening in the news and most likely among peers or co-workers about last night’s episode. Having an opinion will allow for more interaction with you and others so its never a bad thing to have, even if it only comes in handy as “cocktail party knowledge.”

Do you think it was a fair question?