The ACT science section presents information to test-takers in three different formats: data representation, using charts, graphs and other types of visuals; research summaries; and conflicting viewpoints passages.
In conflicting viewpoints readings, high school students are presented with several perspectives on a specific science topic, which they must then answer questions about. This format accounts for 15-20 percent of the ACT science section.
Tackling conflicting viewpoints passages involves multiple skills, like analysis and comprehension, so test-takers should develop techniques for correctly answering the associated questions. Here are three such strategies students can employ on test day.
Read the passage before you read the questions. With certain standardized exam sections, students can benefit from first reading the questions and then going over the passage. However, this approach is not recommended for ACT science conflicting viewpoints passages. Instead, students should read the passage in its entirety and then advance to the accompanying questions.
[Read: 3 Keys for Success on the ACT Science Section.]
The reversed reading approach — questions first, passage second — is ineffective with conflicting viewpoints readings for two main reasons. First, certain questions make little sense when considered independently from the passage.
Secondly, some questions may be too complex to recall while reading the passage. Consider, for example, Passage One from the sample science test questions on the ACT website. It would be very difficult to remember and correctly answer the following complex question, No. 7 on the site, without prior knowledge of the passage:
“Assume Scientist 2’s view about the similarities between Europa’s surface features and flowing glaciers on Earth is correct. Based on this assumption and the information provided, Earth’s glaciers would be least likely to exhibit which of the following features?”
This question requires knowledge of two topics: glaciers on Earth and Europa’s surface features. It also requires you to employ synthesis skills. So in this instance, you are unlikely to save much time by reading the question first.
Take notes as you read to help you better recall each perspective. The conflicting viewpoints passages in the ACT’s science section are filled with details and, occasionally, information that is new to students. As such, students should not rely on their short-term memory to recall ideas within the passage — taking concise notes is a necessity.
Doing so while reading trains you to be an active reader and can increase your accuracy on the ACT. An active reader tries to learn information while reading, while a passive reader aims to simply finish the passage.
[Read: Improve Interpretation of Visuals for ACT Math, Science Success.]
One of the most effective ways to take notes on conflicting viewpoints passages is to use a Venn diagram, which allows for a simple, easy-to-read comparison between the two viewpoints. In other words, a Venn diagram enables you to visualize differences and similarities.
You can practice by making a Venn diagram for Scientists 1 and 2 in the passage mentioned above. What these perspectives have in common is that they both analyze Europa’s surface features, and they both use Earth as a comparison. Scientist 1 advocates for the existence of a deep ocean, while Scientist 2 does not. Your Venn diagram should contain these key facts and perhaps a few more details.
Ensure you read each question carefully. On any standardized test, you should try to read each question thoroughly. After all, you do not get points for reading, only for selecting the correct answer.
The key to reading questions accurately is training yourself to slow down.
[Read: How to Pick Between a Summer or Fall ACT, SAT Test Date.]
Rushing dramatically increases your chances of reading a question incorrectly. Therefore, it is best to read at a more relaxed pace to ensure you do not miss any important words.
Reading at an appropriate speed also ensures you know which viewpoint to refer to and do not get confused. For example, question No. 1 on the above passage hinges on distinguishing between the two scientists’ viewpoints, with answer choices intentionally designed to give students pause.
Remember: Conflicting viewpoints questions must be addressed in a different way than other ACT question types. Keeping these strategies in mind can lead to success on test day.
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How to Answer ACT Science Conflicting Viewpoints Questions originally appeared on usnews.com
