ACT Strategies For Seniors

ACT Strategies For Seniors

Tests like the ACT try to determine whether you can analyze the information given, whether you can eliminate that which looks important but is not relavant to the question asked; and whether you can sythesize imformation to reach conclusions that will help you find the best answer.

To prepare for the ACT:
•Scribble aggressively in the test booklet. You are allowed to write in your test book, and nothing you write there will be considered when your test is scored. Use your pencil to mark in the test in whatever way is helpful. Underline, circle, cross out or calculate - whatever helps you!
•Answer every question. On the ACT, there is no greater penalty for an incorrect answer than for one left blank. Look at every answer, even if you think you have found the right one; there may be a better one.
•Memorize how much time you have to answer each question. Most are allowed one minute each, including rhetorical skills. Questions about punctuation or word choice (English) and data representation (Science) are alloted 30 seconds each. For the four reading passages you have eight to nine minutes to read the passage and answer the questions. If you will practice using these guidelines, you will be ready with little pressure.
•Avoid time traps. Some questions are designed to trip you up. Use a system: +/-, open/closed circles, etc, to prevent spending unnecessary time on tough questions. Guess any answer(if out of time) and move on. Of you come to a question that would require a great deal of time, mark it with a minus in your booklet, give it your best guess and keep working. When you finish the section, go back to your + questions first and then go back to the - questions.
•Practice tests are essential. remember to focus on your test-taking strategies and not on how many questions you missed when practicing.
Source: Fournier Learning Strategies