What is meant by the curve?

Test Preparation ACT Preparation
1

<p>I've been taking the ACT for a while... but can somebody explain to me what is meant by the curve? I mean I know it determines/a factor in score, but what is it exactly?</p>

<p>Thanks</p>

2

<p>now im not as smart as everybody on here, as much as you guys talk about the curve, someone could please answer my question...</p>

<p>thanks</p>

3

<p>viking,
The "curve" is just the score conversion. Look at the conversion table on p. 63 of this pdf from ACT: Preparing</a> for the ACT. A raw score (number of correct answers) of 73 on the English yields a scale (or "standard") score of 34 for that particular version of the test. For a different version, it might be 35 or 33. Each test form has its own unique conversion table, which is designed to make scores from all the different test forms equivalent even if some are slightly more difficult than others. If one test is a little easier, its conversion will be a little harsher to balance it with other test forms.</p>

4

<p>thanks Mrs. Ferguson, thats cool, we were wondering about that when someone takes an easier test.... but just a clarification,</p>

<p>so a harsh curve would be something like: missing 1 and you're already down to a say a 34?</p>

5

<p>I think that is too harsh ^</p>

6

<p>Man that curve on that science test.... dang lol -4 and you already have a 29.</p>

7

<p>
[quote]
excel: I think that is too harsh ^

[/quote]
Missing one and getting a 34 would not be unheard of in Math, Reading, or Science, but it would be very harsh. Usually it is 35 or 36. In English, missing one is almost always 35.</p>