The only section I consistently get 35s and 36s on is English. Reading I usually range between 28 and 32, Math is from 27-34, and Science is around 25-33. Does anyone else have this problem? Also, why does science differ so much from test to test?
Yes, everyone has fluctuations in performance on the ACT. +/-5 points on each section is perfectly normal.
I think science differs the most (for most people) for two reasons:
- The curve changes dramatically. For example, on some tests, -4 is a 29, whereas on other tests, it’s a 34 or 35. That’s a significant range just based on the curve alone.
- Some topics will appeal or harm testers. For example, if you just studied pH in chemistry class, a passage on pH will go run smoothly for you in two ways: 1) you have a higher percentage of getting the answers right and the more subtle advantage is 2) you will most likely spend less time on this passage, thereby increasing time on other passages and not running out of time/rushing.