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The ACT Standardized Test
Return to: College tips -- standardized Tests
The
ACT standardized college entrance exam measures
ability and knowledge in mathematics, English, reading, and science
reasoning, and if you can apply the knowledge to academic tasks. The
ACT is made up of four separate multiple-choice tests that cover each
of the topics. You can also elect to take an optional thirty minuet
writing test.
The ACT Standardized
Mathematics Test will test your knowledge of the of
basic high school math. You will face various types of math problems,
Including word problems, questions that refer to graphs and charts,
geometry equations, trigonometry, as wells as regular arithmetic and
algebra problems.
The ACT Standardized
English Test consists of five passages of nonfiction.
After passage you are asked 15 questions about about how it was
written. The questions will ask you to how to best rewrite an
underlined part of the texts, others questions will ask about the
selections overall organization and style.
The
ACT Standardized Science Reasoning Test will challenge
you with seven sections of science data, which can be in the form of
tables, charts, graphs or diagrams as well as descriptions of studies
and their results. The test also asks about differing theories in
regards to a specific scientific topic. All sections are followed by a
number questions that will test your understanding of the topic and
your ability to interpret relevant information.
The ACT Standardized Reading Test
includes four parts. The first is one is the fictional narrative; the
others topics are all nonfiction: natural sciences, social sciences,
and humanities. Each sections of questions is designed to test how well
you comprehended what you read.
The ACT Writing Test
is optional test consisting of one essay question. The question defines
an prevailing topic and then presents opposing points of view. In your
essay question, you state your stance on the issue and defend your
opinion with details, facts and reasoning. You grade will be based on
your ability to convey your point of view; maintain focus; support your point of
view; present your thoughts in an organized and logical manner; and to
use language clearly, correctly and effectively.
Scoring
the ACT
You receive a score between 1-36 for each
of the standard test sections. The composite score is the average of
your four standard test scores. The optional ACT Writing has a sub
score from 2 to 12 and a combined English/Writing score of 1 to 36. You
will also receive comments about your essay.
Strategies to ACE the ACT
ACT Practice Test
ACT practice tests are a great to begin your preparation for the ACT. They are not expensive and you will
get instant feedback on how you might score on the day of the exam. The practice
exams will also highlight your strengths and weaknesses. Peterson's practice
tests for the ACT are among the best.
The night before the ACT just relax
Do
not stay up late cramming. Look, if you haven't learned it by then, being
tired the next morning is not going to help. Go out with friends-don't
do anything stupid- or anything else that will help you relax.
ACT Math: Multiple-Choice
As
you work through the multiple-choice math questions, you'll be given
reference information (formulas and facts), but you'll need to know how
to use them. You're allowed to use a calculator, but, again, it won't
help you unless you know how to approach the problems. If you're stuck,
try substituting numbers for variables. You can also try plugging in
numbers from the answer choices. Start with the middle number. That
way, if it doesn't work, you can strategically choose one that's higher
or lower.
ACT optional writing exam
Essays
are scored as a whole, that means that your final score is a composite
of the graders overall impression. The best way to create a great
impression is to organize your thoughts into the standard five
paragraph essay format. A well-organized, thought-out essay consisting
of four to five paragraphs will include an introduction, strong
supporting paragraphs, and a defining conclusion. Your aim to have
three body paragraphs that develop and support your views.
Helpful Articles
Find the Right Approach to Test Prep
Do Colleges Require the ACT Writing Test?
Showdown: ACT vs. SAT
Copyright 2008 Gene Grzywacz
DO NOT COPY
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