The DC region is full of overachievers and the pressure to succeed trickles down to our high school students. Here are the steps to help them succeed.
New ACT and SAT Concordance Tables - Released Summer 2018
SAT and ACT - New Concordance Chart
Concordance tables bridge the gap between the ACT and SAT scales, providing a guide to link equivalent scores. They’re not only essential for admissions staff, but also for students and families to help decide which test is the best choice. The newest concordance tables were released this summer, replacing the contested tables that were posted by the College Board, without input from ACT, in 2016.
The range of possible SAT scores that a student can achieve is much wider than the range of possible ACT scores. There are only 36 distinct score possibilities on the ACT, whereas there are 120 possibilities for the SAT, a test which increments its scores by 10 points between 400 and 1600. This means that the concordance table needs to assign a range of SAT scores that match a given ACT score.
The official 2018 ACT/SAT concordance tables can be viewed here.
How Different Are the 2016 vs. 2018 Concordance Tables?
The truth is, when comparing the 2016 and 2018 concordances, the adjustments are not very dramatic. Yet there are some important implications for students:
· For the highest scores on the scale, the top SAT scores have become more valuable in comparison to ACT scores. For instance, a 1540 on the SAT is now considered equal to a 35 on the ACT. Previously, concordance charts had linked the SAT’s 1540 with a 34 on the ACT.
· For the lowest scores on the scale, the bottom SAT scale scores have become less valuable in comparison to ACT scores. A clear example of this is at the SAT score of 590. While this was previously equated to an 11 on the ACT, this score is now linked to a 9, dropping its value by two points.
· Near the middle of the score ranges, (21-24 for ACT, 1060-1190 for SAT) the concordances did not change at all.
What Does This Mean for Students?
The new concordances do not change much for students when it comes to college admission, so this minor adjustment will not make waves.
However, the new concordance information does have the potential to affect minimum scores for merit scholarships or programs that require clear-cut SAT or ACT score ranges. It is likely that the response will be mixed: some institutions will adjust their required ranges, while others will just stick with their established status quo.
Our advice for students starting test prep does not change: if you are deciding between the ACT and SAT, it is still important to take a full-length practice test for each. When you have completed both tests, compare your scores against the 2018 concordance chart. If your SAT and ACT scores are comparable, you should choose whichever test you preferred. If one score is significantly higher, opt for that test instead. The new concordance tables do not change the process of selecting a test; however, they do help to standardize how students, guidance counselors, and admissions committees compare test scores.
If you would like to take a practice ACT or SAT to compare the exams and assess your testing skills, Vint Hill Educational Services offers mock tests in group, individual, and at-home formats. Along with the test booklets, you will receive testing instructions and full diagnostic reports showing score breakdowns in each of the test sections. For more information, please read on, or visit our Mock Testing webpage.
One-To-One ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Raleigh NC, Durham NC, & Cary NC
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to students’ homes on weekdays or weekends.
Contact us to get started with your customized ACT/SAT prep program.
One-To-One ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Charlotte NC
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to students’ homes on weekdays or weekends.
Contact us to get started with your customized ACT/SAT prep program.
One-To-One ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Richmond VA, Henrico VA, & Chesterfield VA
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to students’ homes on weekdays or weekends.
Contact us to started with your customized ACT/SAT prep program.
One-To-One ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Washington DC & Northern VA
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to students’ homes on weekdays or weekends.
Contact us to get started with your customized ACT/SAT prep program.
One-To-One ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Fredericksburg VA, Stafford VA, & Spotsylvania VA
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to students’ homes on weekdays or weekends.
Contact us to get started with your customized ACT/SAT prep program.
Spring 2018 Mock ACT/SAT Classes - Charlotte NC
Vint Hill Educational Services offers mock testing for the ACT and SAT. These administrations are hosted in the Charlotte NC area. We supply the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, extra pencils, and a proctor. Students will need to bring: a calculator, two No. 2 pencils, snacks, and a drink.
Each student receives a 9 page diagnostic report using our test scoring software. We only use official ACT and SAT practice tests. Students that take both an ACT and SAT will receive a student scores comparison chart. This will reveal which test the student is scoring higher on, ACT or SAT.
Charlotte NC area: Click here to register for a mock ACT or SAT
ACT - 03/03/2018 & 05/12/2018
SAT - 02/03/2018 & 04/21/2018
View our sample ACT/SAT diagnostic reports and student scores comparison chart:
ACT report - http://www.vinthilles.com/s/PracticeACTReport-Sample17.pdf
SAT report - http://www.vinthilles.com/s/PracticeSATReport-Sample17.pdf
Student ACT vs. SAT chart - http://www.vinthilles.com/s/VHES-SAT-Scores-Versus-ACT-Scores-Julia.pdf
For those that have only taken a PSAT or SAT, a practice ACT is a must, and we can compare the results to see which test the student is scoring higher on.
Mock ACT/SAT Registration
Online: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b4aabab2fa3f49-free
Phone: 704-412-4004
Email: contact@vinthilles.com
Cost:
$25 for 1 test (ACT or SAT)
$40 for 2 tests (ACT and SAT)
ACT/SAT diagnostic and comparison chart will be emailed to parents.
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding the ACT or SAT.
ACT/SAT Prep: Richmond VA, 2017-2018 Practice Dates
For the 2017-2018 school year, we will be offering group practice tests in the Richmond VA area. These mock sessions will take place at the American Legion in Mechanicsville.
These practice tests are taken in a group setting to simulate the testing environment. We use official ACT and SAT practice tests. We supply the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, extra pencils, and a proctor. Parents receive a student diagnostic score report (ACT/SAT) that reveals strengths and weaknesses, along with a test scores comparison, ACT versus SAT.
Each student receives a 9 page diagnostic report using our test scoring software. Students that take both an ACT and SAT will receive a student scores comparison chart. This will reveal which test the student is scoring higher on, ACT or SAT.
Richmond VA area: Click here to register for a mock ACT or SAT
ACT - 01/13/18, 03/03/18, 04/21/18
SAT - 10/14/17, 02/17/18, 04/07/18
View our sample ACT/SAT diagnostic reports and student scores comparison chart:
ACT report - http://www.vinthilles.com/s/PracticeACTReport-Sample17.pdf
SAT report - http://www.vinthilles.com/s/PracticeSATReport-Sample17.pdf
Student ACT vs. SAT chart - http://www.vinthilles.com/s/VHES-SAT-Scores-Versus-ACT-Scores-Julia.pdf
For those that have only taken a PSAT or SAT, a practice ACT is a must, and we can compare the results to see which test the student is scoring higher on.
Mock ACT/SAT Registration
Online: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b4aabab2fa3f49-free
Phone: 540-428-5379
Email: contact@vinthilles.com
Cost:
$25 for 1 test (ACT or SAT)
$40 for 2 tests (ACT and SAT)
ACT/SAT diagnostic and comparison chart will be emailed to parents.
High School students from all areas of Richmond are encouraged to attend: MIDLOTHIAN VA, GLEN ALLEN VA, ASHLAND VA, DUMBARTON VA, CHAMBERLAYNE VA,TUCKAHOE VA, CHESTERFIELD VA, SHORT PUMP VA, HENRICO VA, AND OTHERS!
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding the ACT or SAT.
Best ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Northern VA
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. It is important to retest the student periodically, in order to reassess strengths and weaknesses. The ACT/SAT prep program should revolve around the student, as he or she grows throughout the prep program. When we see scores suddenly spike in the main area of focus, it means attention must be switched back to the new lowest scoring section.
Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to your home on weekdays or weekends. ACT/SAT prep is available throughout Northern VA and surrounding areas.
Here’s one of our ACT prep students that went up 5 ACT composite points, after only 6 sessions of one-to-one prep. English went up 3 points, math shot up 7 points, reading increased by 6 points, and science jumped up 4 points.
Best ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Richmond, VA
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. It is important to retest the student periodically, in order to reassess strengths and weaknesses. The ACT/SAT prep program should revolve around the student, as he or she grows throughout the prep program. When we see scores suddenly spike in the main area of focus, it means attention must be switched back to the new lowest scoring section.
Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to your home on weekdays or weekends. ACT/SAT prep is available throughout Richmond, VA and surrounding areas.
Here’s one of our ACT prep students that went up 5 ACT composite points, after only 6 sessions of one-to-one prep. English went up 3 points, math shot up 7 points, reading increased by 6 points, and science jumped up 4 points.
Best ACT Prep & SAT Prep: Charlotte, NC
WHY DOES OUR PROGRAM WORK SO WELL?
We often get asked this question. It’s because we focus on the individual student and not a classroom of students. The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. It is important to retest the student periodically, in order to reassess strengths and weaknesses. The ACT/SAT prep program should revolve around the student, as he or she grows throughout the prep program. When we see scores suddenly spike in the main area of focus, it means attention must be switched back to the new lowest scoring section.
Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to your home on weekdays or weekends. ACT/SAT prep is available throughout Charlotte, NC and surrounding areas.
Here’s one of our ACT prep students that went up 5 ACT composite points, after only 6 sessions of one-to-one prep. English went up 3 points, math shot up 7 points, reading increased by 6 points, and science jumped up 4 points.
ACT Science Overview
Format:
• 40 questions
• Multiple-choice
• 4 answer choices
• Passages with charts/diagrams
Content:
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Geology
• Astronomy
• Meteorology
Time: 35 minutes
The ACT science section does not test specific science facts. Instead, students will need to understand how to use certain skills of scientific reasoning. Nearly every question can be answered by referring to the material in the passage. Yet, somewhere between 1 and 5 questions on every ACT test, will concentrate on science-based knowledge not given in the passages. There will be a few questions that require some arithmetic. You may have to find an average or utilize your algebra knowledge.
Question types and scoring
Students receive 1 raw point for every correct answer. There’s nothing lost for answering incorrectly. The raw score is calculated by tallying up the raw points. The overall raw score is then converted to a score on a 1-36 point scale. The ACT science score is 1 of 4 scores that's factored into the ACT composite. The ACT composite is an average of 4 section scores. Meaning, a lower science score will bring down the ACT composite, and a higher score, will help to increase the ACT composite. This, of course, relies on the scores from the other ACT sections: English, reading, and mathematics.
Each ACT test contains:
• 6-8 Conflicting Viewpoints questions. These questions will present two or more scientific theories. Amongst all of the theories, not all of them can be correct. The questions may not ask you to prove which theory is correct, but instead, ask you to describe the viewpoints and how they relate to one another.
• 12-16 Data Representation questions. These questions usually present charts and tables that display different variables. Students will find 2-4 variables and must be able to describe the relationships between the variables.
• 18-22 Research Summary questions. These questions describe an experiment and the scientific findings. The passage will detail the results, makeup, and hypothesis. The questions will ask you about the experiment’s findings, design, and implementation.
Every ACT test will include the same set of instructions for the science section. Master the instructions and you won’t need to read them when taking the test. This enables you to spend more time on the problems by skipping the instructions.
ACT SCIENCE DIRECTIONS: There are seven passages in this test. Each passage is followed by several questions. After reading a passage, choose the best answer to each question and fill in the corresponding oval on your answer document. You may refer to the passages as often as necessary. You are NOT permitted to use a calculator on this test.
Attractor answers
Watch out for attractor answer choices. The ACT anticipates the student making careless mistakes. The test will setup traps for students, and those most impacted, will be students who are not ready for them. The attractors mainly show up on medium to difficult questions.
ACT science tips:
• Focus on one passage at a time
• Learn which types of passages come easier for you
• Tailor your strategies to each passage type
• Don’t worry if the subject is unknown to you. Most of the information is in the passage.
• Work on timing and pacing by practicing passages
• Know the directions, so that you can skip them
• You have 52 ½ seconds per question
• Adjust your pacing to the passage types
o Data Representation passages: spend 4 minutes
o Research Summary passages: spend 5 minutes
o Conflicting Viewpoints passages: spend 7 minutes
Comparing SAT Scores to ACT Scores
Students that take both the SAT and ACT can compare scores to see which test they’re scoring higher on. Some students will find that they’re actually scoring higher on one test over the other. We recommend that students take official SAT and official ACT practice tests. This means, taking a test created by the College Board or the ACT. We offer full-length mock practice tests in a group setting. Students that take both a mock SAT and ACT, with us, will receive an individualized comparison chart. This document accompanies the student’s SAT and ACT baseline reports. We determine which test is better, SAT or ACT, by comparing scores using a concordance table. We also ask the student how he or she felt about the tests: pacing, timing, comfortability, testing format, question types, ACT science versus SAT no-calculator math, essay section, etc.
The ideal time to take full-length practice SAT and ACT tests are fall of junior year. If the family can find time during the summer months, then the summer going into junior year works well too. Juniors usually take their first official test during the winter or spring. Once a test is decided upon, SAT or ACT, a customized test prep plan is put in place, based upon the student’s strengths and weaknesses. If an action plan is put together during the fall of junior year then the student can prep for an official winter or spring test. The amount of prep needed is determined by the difference in the student’s SAT or ACT scores, compared to the interested schools’ middle 50% SAT and ACT scores. In addition, test prep programs need to be catered to the individual and his or her academic background. Is remedial work needed for math or grammar? Does the student receive standardized testing accommodations? Is the student currently enrolled in Algebra II or Trigonometry (taking a spring test might be better)?
By using the chart below, you can decide which test is better for you.
Find out how we can help decide which test to prep for!
Determine Your Match Schools
Match schools make great choices because you'll be among peers who have academic abilities that are similar to your own. A match school is a college or university that is more than likely to admit the applicant as a student. The reason for this is because grades, along with ACT or SAT test scores, are similar to average students at the school. When applying to undergraduate institutions, it's important to choose schools wisely.
Is the school a match for you?
If you know your high school GPA, and you've taken either the ACT or SAT, it's simple to figure out if your GPA and ACT or SAT test scores are average for a specific school. There’s two ways for finding out this information:
Find schools that interest you and go to the admissions department page on their website. ACT and SAT data for matriculated students is usually posted. For most schools, the posted information represents the 25th and 75th percentile of students who enrolled. If your ACT or SAT scores are above the 25th percentile number, you're a possible match for the school. Though, the ultimate goal is to be at the middle 50th percentile. If you cannot find the data on the school’s website then give the admissions office a phone call. It doesn’t hurt to pick up the phone and ask!
View a sample student body profile (Princeton University).
Your match school choices
You must understand that there is no guarantee of admission. Perhaps, many students with grades and ACT or SAT test scores similar to yours were offered a spot to attend next year. It’s very likely that students with comparable portfolios to yours were not admitted. This is a good reason to apply to safety schools. Try to have a few of these because it can be a shock to find out the spring of senior year that you've received nothing.
Top reasons for why you may not have been admitted to a match school:
• The application was incomplete or had careless errors.
• You failed to show your interest in the school.
• The college has a holistic admissions process. Meaning, your essay or extracurricular activities weren't as impressive as other students.
• You may have been knocked out by applicants who applied early action or early decision.
• Your letters of recommendation contradicted or drew suspicion compared to the rest of your application.
• The school wasn't able to meet family financial needs.
• Many schools believe that a diverse student body benefits the campus environment.
Contact us if you need help determining your match schools.
ACT Announces Changes to Score Reports
Writing Test
Starting with the September 10th ACT test, the writing test score will be on a 2–12 score range. This will have changed from the previous 1-36 scale. The remaining sections, English, math, reading, and science will continue to use the 1-36 scale. The newly created scale for the writing test has been designed to be less confusing for both students and parents. The format of the writing test remains unchanged and the section is still optional. The student essays will still be scored by two independent readers, using the same rubric to grade on four domains: ideas and analysis, development and support, organization, and language use and conventions.
Enhanced Reporting
The ACT score reports are being redesigned to look more attractive and be easier to navigate. Click here to view a sample new ACT score report. The new reports will be used for the September 10th test. These updates include:
- An in-depth set of reporting criteria that will replace subject test subscores
- ACT readiness will help students understand what they need to work on
- Utilizing more graphics to help understand visual elements and indicators in order to clearly see the student's performance
- ACT STEM college readiness benchmark, which highlights the potential for success in STEM related college classes
- The interest-major fit level score, will depict whether students’ interests coincide with their college major
- Career connector, which highlights students’ work-related interests and reveals career paths
Interested in taking an ACT practice test? Contact us to learn more.
The Best ACT and SAT Prep Program: Fredericksburg VA - Stafford VA - Spotsylvania VA
ACT and SAT test prep specialists serve the Fredericksburg VA, Stafford VA, Spotsylvania VA, Culpeper VA, Bealeton VA, and Warrenton VA areas.
The largest ACT/SAT score increases are seen when ACT/SAT prep is customized for the individual student. This is also why a baseline test is so effective. Our ACT/SAT practice test score reports are used as a student diagnostic.
The ACT/SAT tutor will hone in on the specific needs for the individual. The diagnostic report reveals trends such as pacing and themes among certain question types. On the SAT reading section, the student may have the most trouble with command of evidence. For the ACT math section, it might be quadratic equations that need the most attention. It is important to retest the student periodically, in order to reassess strengths and weaknesses. The ACT/SAT prep program should revolve around the student, as he or she grows throughout the prep program. When we see scores suddenly spike in the main area of focus, it means attention must be switched back to the new lowest scoring section.
Our ACT/SAT tutors will come to your home on weekdays or weekends. ACT/SAT prep is available throughout the Fredericksburg VA area. Vint Hill Educational Services ACT/SAT tutors reside in: Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Sumerduck, Aquia Harbour, Chancellorsville, Storck, Massaponax, Leavells, and many more!
Here’s one of our ACT prep students that went up 3 ACT composite points, after only 6 sessions of one-to-one prep. English went up 2 points, math shot up 4 points, reading increased by 3 points, and science jumped up 3 points.
What makes our ACT and SAT prep program unique?
• We offer free ACT and SAT diagnostic testing
• We don’t charge a registration fee, testing fee, or tutor finder fee
• We only use official ACT and SAT practice tests
• Our ACT and SAT prep program is one-to-one for customized support
• Prep books, weekly homework assignments, and full-length practice tests are included
• Parents receive access to our online parent portal where they can review tutor session notes
• All of our test prep tutors take an ACT and SAT before being hired
• Our tutors have the minimum of a bachelor’s degree
Contact us today in order to start your ACT or SAT prep program!
SAT Prep: Northern VA – Fredericksburg VA – Richmond VA – Charlottesville VA
Let us help prepare you for the new SAT! The redesigned SAT will launch with the first official administration on March 5, 2016.
Prior to being hired, our test prep tutors take sections from the redesigned SAT. We can guarantee they know the content! They are taught new SAT test-taking tips and strategies as well. Our SAT prep program includes three new SAT books, weekly assignments, and full-length practice tests. Each session is one-to-one and can take place in the student’s home. Parents receive tutor session notes through an online parent portal.
SAT Changes
• 4 multiple-choice answers instead of 5 (Similar to ACT, except for Math)
• Elimination of the ¼ point deduction (ACT doesn’t deduct points for answering incorrectly)
• 5 sections instead of 10 (ACT is 5 sections also – including essay)
• New 50 minute essay and moved to the end (ACT essay is at the end)
• Reading & Writing reverting back to combined 200-800 scale
• Total score on 400-1600 point scale (Math: 200-800 / Reading & Writing: 200-800)
• Introduction of NO calculator allowed math section
• Elimination of sentence completions on Reading
• Heavy focus on Algebra (about 35%) and word problems; Geometry now less than 10% (ACT is about 30% Algebra)
• Trigonometry has been added (ACT already contains Trigonometry)
• History and Science cross-test scores are added (ACT has a Science section and adds STEM scores to reports)
• Total test time including essay is 5 minutes longer than old SAT; now 3 hours and 50 minutes (ACT is 3 hours and 35 minutes)
• The experimental section has been eliminated
Contact us for customized one-to-one SAT prep! We serve students in the following areas: Northern VA, Richmond VA, Fredericksburg VA, Charlottesville VA, and Charlotte NC.
ACT STEM Report
The ACT recently released a report based upon students interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) college degrees. They found that 26% met or were above the STEM readiness benchmark. The STEM score on the ACT is meant to be an indicator of how a student will perform in a first-year college STEM course. More information can be found here: www.act.org/stemcondition
The ACT science section is comprised of data representation, research summary, and conflicting hypothesis based questions. The student gathers required information from charts, tables, and graphs. It's good for the student to know the scientific method as well. The ACT math section tests pre-algebra, algebra I, algebra II, geometry, and trigonometry. The more difficult math questions are usually toward the end and so the student must also focus on pacing.
ACT English Test Approach
The English test on the ACT measures a student’s skill level at evaluating an essay. The English test is 45 minutes long and consists of 75 questions. The student is asked to read 5 essays. These essays are about the same length; questions asked are about style and grammar. Each essay contains 15 questions and the style is in line with current high school students. The language should be familiar and not foreign to most students.
Comparison of the content areas tested:
Area
Rhetorical Skills – 35 questions total
Strategy – 12 questions (appropriateness of sentences)
Organization – 11 questions (order of ideas, conclusions, and introductions)
Style – 12 questions (tone and clarity)
Usage/Mechanics – 40 questions total
Punctuation – 10 questions (commas, colons, dashes, semicolons, apostrophes)
Grammar and Usage – 12 questions (idioms, comparisons, pronouns, subject-verb agreement)
Sentence Structure – 18 questions (run-ons, fragments, misplaced modifiers)
On the official ACT score report, the student will receive an overall English score between 1-36. The student will also receive two subscores, each are between 1-18.
The student should take a full-length practice test in order to establish an appropriate goal on the English section. It is the very first test on the ACT and the student has 36 seconds per question. To score a 20 on the English test, the student needs to answer 43 of 75 questions correctly. With this score, the student is actually above the national average.
Question Types:
Underlined – These questions want the student to look for a potential mistake. However, it may be possible that the sentence is already correct and that there is no change needed.
Boxed – When students see a question that asks about deleting or adding information, this is a boxed question and they are usually rhetorical questions. These questions normally take the student more time to answer.
Overall – This type of question will ask the student to reflect upon the entire essay. The question could ask about how the essay was organized or structured. The student may have to question the effectiveness of the essay.
Top Ways to Maximize ACT English Test Scores:
· Answer the questions as you come to them in the passage
· Make another pass through in order to work on skipped or starred questions (attempt the ones you think you may have the best chance of answering correctly)
· Use any last bit of time to guess on remaining questions
· If the time is getting close to the end, put energy towards answering the short underlined grammar questions
· Don’t pick the first answer that sounds good
· Never leave a question blank as there is no penalty for answering incorrectly
· Eliminate answer choices in your test booklet and guess when you need to