The Essay

Test Preparation ACT Preparation
1

<p>I have never taken the ACT before, and I will be soon. I am wondering, how close is the ACT essay criteria to the SAT's criteria? I know to do well on the SAT one should have 2-3 examples from history or literature and a strong conclusion to back his/her opinion on the prompt. </p>

<p>I went on the ACT site, and in the sample "6" essay there were no true examples backing the argument. Does this mean I should just pretty much worry good vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills, but not necessarily have to include examples from history/literature?</p>

<p>If possible, please tell me what you did in your essay, and what you scored.</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>the ACT essay topic is much more immature than the SAT essay, usually relating to if high school students should do this or have to take this class or blah blah. So it is harder to bring in history. BUT, a 10-12 essay needs a good intro stating your side, backing arguments, a rebuttal, and personal examples. When i scored an 8, i tried to fit in as many backing points, making my writing horrid. When i got a 10, I used less paragraphs, but more paper (the ACT graders like longer essays in shorter times, as long as they stay good). I have an intro, 2 backing points with personal essays, a rebuttal (giving a counter argument and saying why it wouldnt work) and a conclusion.</p>

<p>for a 12, focus on everything. Although vocab isnt that important if you use it nicely it will boost your grade. Focus on personal examples, points, rebuttels, structuring, detailing. Everything the same as in the SAT essay</p>

3

<p>So basically have your </p>

<p>Point
Evidence<br>
Logic</p>

<p>then eventually
Counterpoint
Evidence
Logic</p>

4

<p>The ACT writing is scored basically on how well you can write a traditional five paragraph essay. You should have a very simple thesis. It’s usually an argumentative essay, but if you’ve been taught the CON-PRO-PRO format in english, DO NOT USE IT. I made the mistake of doing so on my first ACT and only scored an 8 because they said that I wasn’t picking a side.</p>

<p>Honestly, they’re looking for simple and formulaic. I’m in AP Language and Composition, which is basically a writing class, and every single person in my class scored lower than people in regular Junior English.</p>

5

<p>Okay, so it’s less obtuse than the SAT is, and more “regular”, as far as standardized test essays go.</p>

6

<p>we need a rebuttal?</p>

<p>i didn’t have one and i got a 10</p>

7

<p>Pretty much just make the grader’s job easy</p>

8

<p>@spectra</p>

<p>the 6’s in the Official ACT red book contain rebuttals</p>

9

<p>thats exactly what they want.</p>