Need examples for the ACT writing essay?

I'm prepping for the ACT test and I'm struggling a bit with the writing portion. Does anybody have some examples of high-scoring ACT writing essays that I can use for reference? Thanks!

Sure, happy to help! I'll provide an outline of a high-scoring ACT essay and a sample essay below. Remember that the ACT writing test consists of a prompt presenting a perspective on a given issue. Your task is to write an argumentative essay in which you analyze different perspectives as well as your own.

Here's an outline of what a high-scoring essay should look like:

1. Introduction

- Briefly introduce the topic

- State your thesis clearly (your perspective)

- Provide a preview of your main points

2. Perspective 1 (opposing perspective)

- Explain the perspective

- Acknowledge its strengths

- Refute or critique the perspective using specific examples, facts, or reasoning

3. Perspective 2 (another opposing perspective)

- Explain the perspective

- Acknowledge its strengths

- Refute or critique the perspective using specific examples, facts, or reasoning

4. Your perspective (in agreement with or differing from the provided perspectives)

- Explain your perspective clearly

- Support your perspective with specific examples, facts, or reasoning

5. Conclusion

- Summarize the perspectives

- Restate your thesis

- Offer a solution or a call to action

Here's a sample essay response on the topic of "Should schools prioritize STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) over arts and humanities?"

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Introduction

Educational institutions must strike a balance between teaching STEM subjects and the arts and humanities. My perspective is that schools should encourage both disciplines without prioritizing one over the other.

Perspective 1

Some argue that focusing on STEM education is the key to the future, as it fosters innovation and opens career opportunities in a technology-driven world. Admittedly, STEM subjects can teach essential problem-solving and analytical skills. However, the assumption that the arts and humanities are less valuable fails to recognize the profound influence these fields have on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and understanding diverse cultures.

Perspective 2

Others contend that arts and humanities should be prioritized, as they enrich people's lives and promote cultural awareness. Indeed, studying literature, history, and philosophy helps students comprehend the human experience and promotes empathy. Nevertheless, diminishing the importance of STEM fields could lead to a decreased ability to excel in a society increasingly reliant on technological and scientific innovations.

Your Perspective

In my view, a well-rounded education that includes both STEM and the arts and humanities is essential. Fostering interest in all disciplines leads to a more balanced skill set, where students develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and cultural understanding. For instance, students exposed to STEM subjects might invent new technologies, while those studying the arts could use their creativity to find innovative solutions to pressing global issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, schools should not prioritize STEM over the arts and humanities, nor the other way around. By encouraging a balanced curriculum, students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in all aspects of society, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to an ever-changing world.

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I hope this outline and sample essay can serve as a good starting point for your own practice. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect, so continue working on the writing portion of the ACT to improve your skills and confidence. Good luck!