Prep Corps

The ACT

The ACT is comprised of four subjects including English, math, science and reading, with a 30-minute optional writing component. It takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete (4 hours if you take the ACT Plus Writing) including testing time and a short break. The ACT is accepted by all 4-year colleges and universities in the U.S. and is offered six times each year in California (see www.actstudent.org for test dates).

English: The English section is a 45-minute test comprised of 75 multiple-choice questions. It tests on six elements of effective writing including punctuation, grammar and usage, sentence structure, strategy, organization and style.

Math: The Math section is a 60-minute test comprised of 60 questions. It tests of six content areas including pre-algebra, elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, coordinate geometry, plane geometry and some trigonometry.

Science: The Science section is a 35-minute test comprised of 40 questions. There are seven 5 – 7 question passages on various topics in science (e.g., geology, astronomy, meteorology). However, no outside knowledge is required. All the information needed to answer questions in this section is provided within the passages. Students are tested on their scientific reasoning skills through analyzing data in three different formats including data representation, research summaries and conflicting viewpoints.

Reading: The Reading section is a 35-minute test comprised of 40 questions. There are four 10-question passages in social studies, natural sciences, prose fiction and humanities. Students are tested on what is directly stated as well as on statements with implied meanings.

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