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Intro to Science Test Passage Types


Kristin Fracchia
Lesson by Kristin Fracchia
Magoosh Expert

Summary
The ACT Science test comprises three primary passage types: Data Representation, Research Summaries, and Conflicting Viewpoints, each requiring distinct strategies for effective comprehension and analysis.
  • Data Representation passages involve interpreting scientific information presented in charts, tables, graphs, and diagrams, focusing on identifying and analyzing data trends.
  • Research Summaries passages describe one or more experiments, focusing on the design, procedure, and results, requiring interpretation of study design and analysis of results.
  • Conflicting Viewpoints passages present differing theories or hypotheses on a phenomenon, emphasizing reading comprehension to understand and compare the presented viewpoints.
  • Understanding the structure and strategy for each passage type is crucial for pacing and maximizing performance on the ACT Science test.
  • Strategies include quickly identifying passage types, focusing on key information, and applying specific analytical approaches to answer questions accurately.
Chapters
00:00
Data Representation Passages
04:19
Research Summaries Passages
06:33
Conflicting Viewpoints Passages

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IMPORTANT UPDATE TO THIS LESSON: On 2015 ACT tests, the Science Test has featured 6 passages (instead of the traditional 7): specifically 3 Research Summaries passages with 7 questions each, 2 Data Representation passages with 6 questions each, and 1 Conflicting Viewpoint passage with 7 questions. Make sure to check your test before you start to see how many passages you have so you can plan your pacing accordingly. 7 passages means you have 5 minutes per passage. 6 passages means you have almost 6 minutes per passage.