Lesson 1.4: Should You Take Science and Writing?

Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the optional sections of the Enhanced ACT: Science and Writing. Understanding whether to include these sections on your test day is crucial for aligning your test preparation with your college aspirations. This lesson aims to provide you with clear strategies on how to manage these optional sections effectively, highlighting their significance in reporting categories relevant to your future academic endeavors.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

Match optional-section choices to target programs and scholarship requirements.
Evaluate the cost and benefit of each optional section for STEM and ELA reporting.
Decide whether to add Science, Writing, both, or neither based on their college list and goals.
Explain how the optional choice changes the practice plan and test-day schedule.
Understand the main ideas and terminology behind this lesson.

Overview of the Enhanced ACT

Before diving into the specifics of the Science and Writing sections, let's review the overall structure of the Enhanced ACT. The Enhanced ACT consists of several sections:

English (75 questions)
Mathematics (60 questions)
Reading (40 questions)
Science (40 questions)
Writing (1 essay)

Timing and Structure

The total time for the Enhanced ACT is approximately 3 hours, which includes time for breaks. Each section has a designated time limit, which requires strategic pacing to ensure you complete all questions.

Here is a breakdown of the time limits:

English: 45 minutes
Mathematics: 60 minutes
Reading: 35 minutes
Science: 40 minutes (optional)
Writing: 40 minutes (optional)

Section 1: The Science Section

Purpose and Importance

The Science section of the Enhanced ACT tests your ability to interpret, analyze, and evaluate information presented in various scientific formats. This may include graphs, tables, and research summaries. The questions do not require specific scientific knowledge but focus on critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

When Should You Take Science?

Here are some scenarios in which including the Science section may be advantageous:

Targeting STEM Programs: If you are applying to colleges with strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs, the Science section may enhance your application by demonstrating your competency in scientific reasoning.
Scholarship Requirements: Some scholarships specifically require students to take the Science section to qualify. Understanding the requirements of your target colleges and scholarships is vital before deciding.

Worked Example: Evaluating Science Scores

To understand how Science scores impact your application, consider a hypothetical scenario:

College A: Requires a minimum composite score of 25 but does not consider the Science score.
College B: Requires a composite score of 24 and also values Science scores.

If students scores a composite of 26 with a Science score of 30, they are above College A’s requirements and competitive for College B,

which may further strengthen their application.

Common Misconceptions

Many students believe that scoring high in the Science section requires an extensive background in science. This is not true; critical thinking and data analysis are the primary skills needed to excel.

Section 2: The Writing Section

Purpose and Importance

The Writing section requires you to compose an essay based on a given prompt, assessing your writing skills, argument clarity, and coherence. This section is particularly crucial for colleges that place a high value on effective communication skills.

When Should You Take Writing?

Consider taking the Writing section in the following situations:

Required by Target Colleges: Some colleges require the Writing section for admissions. Always check the admissions criteria for your prospective schools.
Strengthening Communication Skills: If your application essay or personal statement is a critical component of your application, showcasing your writing ability through this section may enhance your prospects.

Worked Example: Evaluating Writing Scores

Suppose a college states that they consider the Writing score as part of a holistic review. If students scores a 30 on the Composite but only a 20 on the Writing section, they may lose potential points in that category.

Strategic Decisions

Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to take the Science and/or Writing sections, weigh the following factors:

College Requirements: Research your target colleges to see if they require these sections.
Personal Strengths and Interests: Reflect on whether you feel confident in your scientific reasoning and writing abilities.
Time Management: Consider how the additional sections will affect your study schedule and practice tests.

Study Plan Adjustments

Deciding to take Science or Writing will necessitate additional practice and resources. Here are some strategies to incorporate these sections effectively:

Book Time for Specific Practice: Allocate time in your study schedule to focus specifically on Science reasoning or Writing prompts.
Take Practice Tests Including Optional Sections: Simulate the testing environment by completing practice tests that include the optional sections to gauge your performance and timing.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to take the Science and Writing sections on the Enhanced ACT is not just a matter of preference, but a strategic choice based on your college list, intended major, and scholarship opportunities. By carefully evaluating the requirements and reflecting on your strengths, students can make an informed decision that aligns with their academic goals.

Study Notes

The Enhanced ACT consists of English, Mathematics, Reading, and optional Science and Writing sections.
Science assesses critical thinking and analysis, while Writing evaluates argumentative writing and clarity.
Research college programs and scholarship requirements when deciding on optional sections.
Prepare effectively by adding optional sections to your practice plans if chosen.
Understand common misconceptions regarding the need for extensive knowledge for success in Science and Writing.