ACT vs SAT Debunked

To Begin… What differences do you already know exist between the ACT and the SAT? Explain. What questions do you have in advance regarding the SAT and the ACT?

ACT and SAT This year you will attempt BOTH the ACT and the SAT– both exams are accepted by all universities and colleges, however often times, one exam better “suits” a student’s learning style Think about yourself as a student in school—are you more consistent in straightforward multiple-choice scenarios? Or problem solving and critical thinking? Creek and the ACT

Test Format The SAT is basically spit into multiple Math and English Sections–there will be a writing or problem-solving math section, and more vocabulary built in The ACT– English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing (optional) Content differences? Words in context are MUCH more valued in the SAT than the ACT Grammar are present in both Science is only included in the ACT

Test Style The SAT is built from questions that are evidence and context-based, as well as real world situations and multi-step problem solving The ACT questions are much more straightforward– questions may need to be broken down, but are easier to understand in particular sections (ie. Math)

Scoring The SAT is broken down into two sections– Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. Each section is scored from 200-800 pts. This results in a 400-1600 composite score. Math, Science, Reading and English each scored from 1-36, with a total score of 36 as an average of each section NO Penalty for guessing on EITHER Exam

Difficulty Levels The SAT questions increase in difficulty throughout the section, except for the reading comprehension section. These questions move chronologically through the passage (good tip to know!!) Formulas are provided on the SAT for math, and the math questions again, are more problem-solving based. (Math writing section) The ACT difficulty levels progress at random, except for math which progresses by difficulty and concept For example, linear algebra first, trig last

Sample SAT Math

Sample SAT Writing and language https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sample-questions/writing-language Notice any differences?

Now…Reflect Which exam do you feel would fit your learning style as a student? Explain. How does preparation look similar or different for each exam? Explain. Any further questions?