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The Conflicting Viewpoints Passage


Kristin Fracchia
Lesson by Kristin Fracchia
Magoosh Expert

Summary
The Conflicting Viewpoints Passage in the ACT Science section presents a unique challenge, requiring a strategic approach to understand and compare different scientific theories or hypotheses related to a phenomenon.
  • The passage typically features two or more differing viewpoints on a scientific phenomenon, often labeled as Scientist 1, Scientist 2, or Student 1, Student 2.
  • A strategic reading approach is essential, with options to read the passage in its entirety or tackle each viewpoint separately before answering related questions.
  • Key to success includes identifying the main hypothesis, similarities, and differences between viewpoints, and effectively annotating these elements during reading.
  • Time management strategies are crucial, especially for deciding which sections to prioritize when time is limited.
  • Practice is emphasized as the best way to become comfortable with the passage type and to refine one's strategy for tackling it.
Chapters
00:00
Understanding the Conflicting Viewpoints Passage
01:24
Strategies for Reading the Passage
04:38
Annotating and Comparing Viewpoints
09:35
Time Management and Prioritization