<p>So, I took the ACT plus writing in June. My composite score was a 24 (8 on the essay).
English: 22
Math: 25
Reading: 28
Science: 22
I struggle with science no matter the field. I think my best science grade was in biology. I'm not the best at grammar but, I'm a good writer and reader. I know comparing the ACT to the SAT is like comparing apples to oranges. But, given how well I did with the Reading, Math, and Writing should I take the SAT? A teacher at my school said if I take both and do extremely horrible on one, my chances of being accepted decrease because colleges can see my scores???</p>
<p>First let’s get this out of the way:
Absolutely untrue. First, colleges won’t see your scores if you don’t send them. Second, they have a vested interest in using the higher scores (drives up their rankings, gives consideration if you are sick on the day of the test…). Third, only a handful of schools require you to send all your test scores so don’t send the ones that are bad.</p>
<p>As far as the SAT, I generally think it’s a good idea to take both to see which you are more comfortable with. You can then work on improving for that test.</p>
<p>As far as ACT science, it’s not really science. It’s reading comprehension and logical thought. You don’t need to be good at science to do well on that section. Take some practice tests and get used to the questions. Read the questions first, the look for the answers in the reading or charts.</p>
<p>Erin’s Dad is spot on for all his points.</p>
<p>I agree that you should try taking an SAT practice test under realistic conditions. Next, compare the score in two ways: 1) percentile rank across the country (if you’re 60 percentile in ACT but 70 percentile in SAT this is good), 2) where you fit in in the schools you’re applying to, (just google “[school name] SAT scores” to get their 25th-75th percentile ranges)</p>
<p>Typically I don’t think students differ too much from one test to the other, though.</p>