1. Strategies for both exams
Writing the essays
Strategies for both exams

2. Comparison: Content SAT ACT Last section Optional 50 min
Rhetorical analysis prompt
Essay task requires you to read and analyze a non-fiction passage
All grammar and style rules apply
First person should be used sparingly
Last section
Optional
40 min
Persuasive prompt
Essay task requires you to evaluate 3 opinions on a topic, then construct your own opinion
All grammar and style rules apply
First person is fine

3. Comparison: Scoring SAT ACT 2 readers using a rubric and anchors
3 subscores of 1-4 in Reading, Analysis, and Writing
Score of 3-24 reported separately
2 readers using a rubric and anchors
1 holistic score of 1-6
Essay score is reported as part of an English/Writing composite score (see next slide)

5. Time management Prompt and Plan <10 min Read/analyze article.
Step
Time
Tasks: SAT
Tasks: ACT
Prompt and Plan
<10 min
Read/analyze article.
Write a brief outline.
Read/evaluate perspectives.
Write a brief outline
Produce
38 min (SAT)
28 min (ACT)
Write!
Stick to your outline
Focus on one idea per paragraph
Make transitions between ideas
Feel free to “overexplain”
Concrete > Abstract
Proofread
2 min
Make corrections neatly

6. Decode the prompt: SAT
As you read the passage below, consider how Jimmy Carter uses
• evidence, such as facts or examples, to support claims.
• reasoning to develop ideas and to connect claims and evidence.
• stylistic or persuasive elements, such as word choice or appeals to emotion, to add power to the ideas expressed.
Write an essay in which you explain how Jimmy Carter builds an argument to persuade his audience that the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge should not be developed for industry. In your essay, analyze how Carter uses one or more of the features listed in the box above (or features of your own choice) to strengthen the logic and persuasiveness of his argument. Be sure that your analysis focuses on the most relevant features of the passage.
Your essay should not explain whether you agree with Carter’s claims, but rather explain how Carter builds an argument to persuade his audience.

7. Decode the prompt:ACT

8. Manage the clock! Before the test: During the test:
Practice, practice practice
During the test:
Don’t skip the planning step
Fill the space you’re given:
More paragraphs = good
Detailed paragraphs = better
There’s always more to say
Connect all the dots
Remember your “slow” friend
Speed is essential, but don’t sacrifice legibility
Reserve time for proofreading
Correcting an error = not making an error in the first place