Hey everyone! I'm just starting to learn about the ACT, and I'm a bit confused about how the scoring works. Could someone please explain how the scoring is done and what the different sections of the test are? Thanks!
Hey there! The ACT is scored based on four different sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each section is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with 36 being the highest possible score for each section. Here's a brief overview of each section:
1. English: This section has 75 multiple-choice questions that test your grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills. You're given 45 minutes to complete this section.
2. Math: This section consists of 60 multiple-choice questions focused on algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. It's a 60-minute section.
3. Reading: This section has 40 multiple-choice questions that assess your reading comprehension skills using four passages. You have 35 minutes to finish this section.
4. Science: This section includes 40 multiple-choice questions that test your scientific reasoning skills with various passages and data presentation formats such as graphs and tables. You have 35 minutes for this section.
To calculate your ACT composite score, your raw scores (the number of questions you answer correctly) for each section are first converted into scaled scores (ranging from 1 to 36). Then, the average of these four scaled scores is taken, and it's rounded to the nearest whole number. The resulting value becomes your overall ACT composite score, which ranges from 1 to 36. In case there's a decimal value equal to or greater than 0.5, it is rounded up to the nearest whole number.
Additionally, there's an optional Writing section on the ACT, scored separately on a scale of 2 to 12. It does not impact your composite score. It consists of one essay prompt, and you're given 40 minutes to write an essay in response.
Keep in mind that different colleges may place varying levels of emphasis on your composite score, individual section scores, or the Writing score during the admissions process. It's essential to research the specific requirements and expectations of the colleges you're interested in applying to.
Good luck with your ACT preparation!
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