Green Level Juniors are taking the ACT on Thursday, the 13th. The ACT is a standardized test that tests your college readiness and is a good representation of your high school knowledge. The ACT is all multiple choice and has four sections: English, reading, math, and science, plus an optional essay section. The test will last about 3 hours, and with the breaks provided, you will be in the testing room for over 3 hours.
The scoring scale ranges from 1 to 36, with 36 being the best score possible. Each of your scores in each section is averaged to make your overall score. You will receive one point for each question you answer correctly, and will not be penalized for any questions you get wrong. So it is important that you answer every question, even if you don’t know the answer, don’t leave it blank.
Almost every high school student takes both the ACT and the SAT. Many might be unsure what the difference between the two is. The major difference is that the ACT has a science section. The science section has readings on science scenarios or experiments, and you must answer questions about them. Even though the SAT is a shorter test, the ACT has less time per question, making it a bit more fast-paced. Both tests have similar content and both can be used for college admissions and awarding merit-based scholarships.
While some think standardized tests are a good benchmark for a student’s intelligence, others believe that they are inaccurate and impractical. English teacher at Green Level, Mrs. Nation, is passionate about the downsides of standardized testing.
“I am not a big fan of standardized testing, I understand the impulse to try to have a nationwide measure that could represent all students. But I don’t think the standardized tests we have do that very accurately.” Mrs. Nation explains, “I think they’re really more a measure of your test-taking strategies you know, and how fast you work. Rather than your actual intellectual ability.”
The ACT can be very helpful for college admissions, it is a good representation of your college readiness, but not all colleges require that you submit a score. Whether you should submit your ACT score depends on the school you are applying to and your score. Test-optional schools don’t require that you submit your scores, while you still can. So make sure that you do your research on the school you are applying to so you can prepare for that decision. It is recommended that you submit your ACT score if your ACT score is strong and if it falls within the range for the college you are applying to.
With the rise of many colleges becoming test-optional, it is likely that standardized tests will fall in worthiness. Nation remarks, “I wish colleges would just drop it as a requirement.” She is a heavy believer of the theory that tests like the ACT and the SAT should be removed entirely.
Whether you submit your score or not, juniors are still required to take the test this week, so you must be prepared and ready. You must arrive at the school by 7:25, it is suggested that you arrive even earlier so that you make sure you get to your testing location in time. The testing locations for each student will be posted on the wall right by the front entrance. Most standardized tests are held in the gym and the aux gym, make sure to remember which gym you are assigned to and your desk number.
You will need to bring your chromebook and a charger, just in case. You need your school-issued chromebook to take the ACT so don’t forget it! In addition, you will be provided with break times throughout the test, it is often beneficial to bring a water bottle and a snack for those break times. You will be in the testing environment for a long time, a quick snack and some water will certainly help pick you up mid-test.
The last thing you can do to prepare for the ACT is to study! The format of the questions and the content might be unfamiliar to you, so it is important to prepare in advance. A good approach to studying is to do practice tests. There are free practice tests available online, the best one is on the ACT website. There is math, English, reading, and science practice, with full readings and multiple-choice questions. If you are looking for extensive practice, it may be beneficial to get a tutor. Tutors can give you extensive practice and help you pinpoint what areas you need to improve on.
The last reminder is to prioritize your health in preparation for taking the ACT. The most important thing is to get enough sleep! Sleep is so important for your performance the next day, high schoolers do not prioritize sleep enough. Go to sleep at a reasonable time and your body and your brain will be prepared for taking this lengthy exam. Another way to fuel your body effectively is by eating a full breakfast the morning of. Having food in your stomach will give you energy and fuel for the day. With a full night of sleep and a nutritious breakfast, you will without a doubt be prepared for this test!
Juniors: mark your calendars, this Thursday, March 13th, at 7:25, you will be taking the ACT. Don’t feel overwhelmed by the date, it is never too late to start studying. Good luck Gators!
