The ACT Gets a Makeover: What the Changes Mean for Your College Prep

The New ACT – What You Need to Know!

The ACT exam is evolving to better meet the needs of students and educators. We would like to share with you an in-depth look at the recent changes, implementation timeline, motivations behind the changes, and how they affect you. We’ll also cover student and expert reactions, address frequently asked questions, and explore the future vision for the ACT.

Major Changes

Reduction in Test Length and Number of Questions

• Test Duration: Reduced from three hours to two hours.
• Number of Questions: Decreased from 215 to 171.
• Time Per Question: Increased by 22%.
• Sections Affected: Shorter passages in the English and reading sections.
• Total Questions: 44 fewer questions overall.

Reduction in Test Length and Number of Questions

• New Option: The science section will become optional.
• Combination Choices:
  • ACT
  • ACT plus science
  • ACT plus writing
  • ACT plus science and writing

Maintaining Core Sections

• Core Sections: English, reading, and math remain mandatory.
• Composite Score: Average of the three core sections, reported on the same 1-36 scale.

Implementation Timeline

National Testing

• Start Date: Spring 2025.

School-Day Testing

• Start Date: Spring 2026.

Background and Motivation

Digital Version and Superscoring

• Digital Version: Began in February 2023, not adaptive, mirrors the paper test.
• Superscoring: Started in April 2021.

Student and Expert Reactions

• Student Feedback: Generally positive, appreciating increased flexibility and reduced stress.
• Expert Opinions: Mixed. Some see opportunities for higher scores; others caution about initial transition risks.

Addressing College Readiness

• Motivation: ACT scores hit a 30-year low, significant declines in college readiness benchmarks, especially in math.
• CEO Statement: Janet Godwin, CEO of ACT.org, emphasized the need for changes to better prepare graduates for postsecondary success.

Goals and Vision

Focus on Innovation and Accessibility

• Commitment: Evolving to meet the needs of students and educators.
• Objective: Make the test more manageable and less fatiguing.
• Mission: Provide accessible, reliable, and forward-thinking readiness solutions.

FAQ

1. How will the reduction in the number of questions and the overall test length impact my child’s preparation strategy?

Impact: Focus on quality over quantity. Each question carries more weight.
Strategy: Emphasize deep understanding, accuracy, and time management with the new test formats.

2. What are the key differences between the digital and paper versions of the ACT, and how should my child decide which format to choose?

Difference: The digital ACT is not adaptive and mirrors the paper test.
Decision Factors: Comfort with technology, test-taking environment preferences. Practice with both formats to decide.

3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking the optional science section?

Advantages: Demonstrates proficiency in scientific reasoning, beneficial for STEM programs.
Disadvantages: Adds to test length, may increase stress. Focus on strengths and college requirements.

4. How will the optional science and writing sections affect college admissions and scholarship opportunities?

Impact: Many colleges consider all ACT sections. Research specific college requirements. Optional sections can show a well-rounded skill set.

5. What specific changes have been made to the English and reading sections, and how should my child adjust their study plan accordingly?

Changes: Shorter passages, fewer questions.
Study Plan: Practice with shorter passages, emphasize comprehension and analysis. Use practice tests that reflect the new format.

6. How will the increased time per question influence my child’s test-taking approach and pacing strategies?

Influence: Allows more thoughtful answers. Teach time allocation and practice with new pacing strategies.

7. What resources and practice tests are available to help my child prepare for the new format of the ACT?

Resources: Official practice tests at The House Tutoring & Test Prep.

8. How do the changes to the ACT compare to recent changes in the SAT, and how should we decide which test is better for my child?

Comparison: ACT retains optional science section, non-adaptive format. SAT is fully digital and adaptive.
Decision: Consider strengths and preferences. Practice tests for both can help in making an informed decision.

9. What feedback or insights have educators and test prep experts provided about the new ACT format?

Feedback: Generally positive. More time per question can reduce stress. Thorough preparation and adapting strategies are crucial.

10. How will the changes to the ACT impact my child’s ability to achieve a higher composite score?

Impact: Increased time per question, reduced number of questions can help achieve higher scores. Flexibility to skip science section if weak. Thorough preparation is essential.

Conclusion

The ACT’s modifications aim to improve the overall testing experience, making it more flexible and accommodating for students’ diverse needs. By focusing on quality over quantity, providing more time per question, and offering optional sections, the ACT is committed to evolving to meet the needs of modern students.

For any further questions or detailed insights, please visit us at https://www.the.house