D scored a 34 on ACT English and 32 on Reading with no prep. Any idea how the Lit subject test compares to these two tests? Do you think she needs to prep?
She is in AP Lang right now as a Junior, and will take AP Lit next year.
The literature subject test, in my opinion, was incredibly difficult. I scored fairly well on the English (33) and Reading (35) section of the ACT but I struggled immensely on the subject test (highest being a 670). If your D has a strength in poetry, I think she will be fine but interpreting meaning down to a minute detail is what really tripped me up on the test.
They aren’t comparable tests.
ACT English and Reading are comprehension speed tests. Questions are not intended to trick test takers, and if a student can read and understand the passages quickly, s/he will usually score well.
SAT II Literature requires a much stronger English language skillset. Wording is designed to confuse, there are traps and distractions in all passages, and questions will be much more conceptual than what you’ll encounter on the ACT. Lit is widely recognized as the most difficult SAT II.
I would highly recommend prepping for Lit. The test has a few specific tricks, and strong preparation can raise one’s score significantly. Go through practice tests, hone in on areas of weakness, and study accordingly.