2. Reading passages  Jot down quick notes as you read  Identify the general topic  Key points of passage  What is the author attempting to convey  Purpose  Make note of transition words

3. Transition words

4. Understanding categories of questions:  Read the question and think of a logical answer before reviewing the answer choices  Generally one choice is completely wrong  Two answer choices will be very close. You may want to refer back to the passage when making the decision between the two options

5. Content of Questions

6. Main idea questions  Not stated explicitly  Generally in first or last paragraph (therefore, hence, so, thus etc.)  Sample phrasing: Which of the following best states the central idea of the passage  May give you answers that falsely resemble as detractors  Detractors go beyond the main idea

7. Primary Purpose Questions  Hidden intentions of the author  Very subtle  May receive clue at beginning or end of passage  Phrasing: purpose/focus/concern/author interested in…

8. Title Questions  Choose a suitable title/ “clear picture”  Use judicious elimination

9. Specific Detail/Target Questions  Most common types of questions  Go to line number and read two lines before and after  Answer same just expressed in different vocabulary

10. Finding Purpose in Paragraph  Ask yourself: why the author has added the paragraph  Attitude  Supporting or contradicting ideas

11. Scope of Argument  Scope = extent or range of view  Area which views presented in passage can be extended  Identify main idea and what can be identified within the passage  Incorrect answers are generally too strong in tone

12. Inference/Extension

13. Inference/Extension Cont’d

14. Application  Extensions asks you to apply what you have learned, application must be in relation to a different or hypothetical situation  Keep the author’s perspective in mind

15. Tone or Attitude Questions  Tone = particular style or manner of writing  Attitude or mood as reflected in piece  “feelings towards subject”

16. Tone/Attitude  Review adjective choices  Look for strong words

17. Structure/Organization

18.  Information from http://www.testpreppractice.net/ACT/ACT- Tutorials/Reading-Comprehension- Tutorial.aspx

19. Online test practice  Please go to: http://www.testpreppractice.net/ACT/Free- ACT-Practice-Tests/Reading-Comprehension- 1.aspx http://www.testpreppractice.net/ACT/Free- ACT-Practice-Tests/Reading-Comprehension- 1.aspx  (you will find the link on our class website)