PREPARATION FOR ACT AND PLAN: READING SECTION

ACT: Reading Section

Time Constraints

Reading ACT: 40 Questions

4 passages, 10 MC questions each 35 Minutes

Hustle… less than 1 minute per question

Watch your time! (about 8 minutes per passage)

ACT Test Tips for Success

Do NOT read the passage in its entirety and then answer questions. You WILL run out of time!

If two answers are directly opposites, the chances are good that one of them will be the correct answer.

The primary purpose of a passage is to describe, discuss or explain something.

Never a “negative” verb- to refuse, refute

“Plug and Chug” questions: Plug in the replacement words and see if it makes sense.

ACT Test Tips for Success

Although it may seem obvious, do not spend too much time on any single question.

If a question is difficult, take your best educated guess and “star” it in your test booklet. If time allows, come back to it. Do not leave a question blank with the intention to

return to it later. Random Guess v. Educated Guess

Eliminate 2 answers; then guess

Be Aware…

Nearly all answers seem compelling.

All answer choices will include accurate, textual-based information but with an incorrect response. So, don’t just assume since the first answer sounds

good, that it is correct.

Reading Strategies = Reading Success

1. Begin the passage by reading the first paragraph, the topic sentences and the last paragraph. (non-fiction passages) (First, topic, last)

2. Annotation: write two-three word summaries of each paragraph as you read. Underline important details, technical terms, etc. (annotate)

3. Read the question stems first, then skim the passage. As you read, look for key words/phrases from the questions. (question 1st)

Slow Readers… (Full ACT only)

Again, read the first paragraph, topic sentences and the last paragraph.

If you are a slow reader or get stressed due to time constraints: Consider spending the majority of time on only

the first three passages, and then quickly skim and respond to the last passage.

Reading Target Scores (BCHS Target Reading ACT Score:21)

Target Score # Correct

36 40

30 35

26 30-31

23 26-27

20 22

17 18

11 9-10