This page prominently features a button at the top, granting immediate access to the ACT Reading practice test. Right beneath it, a meticulously designed practice test awaits, tailored specifically to optimize your exam preparation. These tests are crafted with precision, not only to highlight your strengths but also to identify areas for improvement. This targeted approach supports the development of a personalized and efficient study plan.
For those seeking to deepen their focus on specific areas, we provide specially curated quizzes. Each quiz is dedicated to a distinct segment of the ACT Reading exam, offering an intense and beneficial study experience. This strategy guarantees a comprehensive and targeted path towards mastering the exam.
American College Reading Domain Exams
The ACT Reading exam is structured to evaluate a student’s ability to understand and interpret written text across a variety of genres. The test is divided into four primary domains, each representing a specific set of skills that students are expected to demonstrate. The exam consists of 40 questions in total, with a time limit of 35 minutes.
Each question carries equal weight, and they are distributed across the three key domains as follows:
Domain 1: Key Ideas and Details
- Percentage of Exam: 52%-60%
- Description: This domain tests the ability to read closely to determine what the text says explicitly and to make logical inferences from it. Questions focus on summarizing content, understanding sequences of events, and identifying key details.
Domain 2: Craft and Structure
- Percentage of Exam: 25%-30%
- Description: Questions in this category assess the student’s ability to analyze the author’s word choices and overall structure of a passage to determine the author’s purpose, the intended audience, or the meaning of words and phrases within context.
Domain 3: Integration of Knowledge and Ideas
- Percentage of Exam: 13%-23%
- Description: This area focuses on the ability to synthesize information from multiple texts and evaluate arguments. It includes comparing and contrasting information presented in different formats or media.
| Exam Domain | % of Exam | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ideas and Details | 52%-60% | Focus on understanding what the text says explicitly, making logical inferences, summarizing, and identifying key details. |
| Craft and Structure | 25%-30% | Analyzing the author’s word choices, determining the author’s purpose, intended audience, and the meanings of words and phrases within context. |
| Integration of Knowledge and Ideas | 13%-23% | Synthesizing information from multiple texts, evaluating arguments, and comparing and contrasting presented information. |
Additional Key Points:
- Question Format: All questions are multiple-choice, based on passages provided in the exam.
- Passage Content: Passages can include prose fiction, social science, humanities, and natural science texts.
- Scoring: Each correct answer counts towards a raw score, which is then converted into a scaled score ranging from 1 to 36.
ACT Reading Exam Breakdown
The ACT Reading Exam is one of the four sections of the ACT test, which is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. This particular section assesses your reading comprehension skills, focusing on your ability to read and understand texts similar to those you might encounter in a first-year college course.
Breakdown of the ACT Reading Exam
- Content: The exam consists of four passages, each accompanied by multiple-choice questions. The passages are drawn from four broad areas: prose fiction, social science, humanities, and natural science.
- Question Types: Questions typically test your ability to understand the main idea, locate details, interpret sequences of events, compare and contrast, and determine cause-effect relationships.
- Format: There are 40 questions to be answered in 35 minutes, which means that pacing is crucial. The questions are directly related to the passages, with no prior knowledge of the topics required.
- Scoring: The Reading section score is scaled between 1 and 36, contributing to your composite ACT score which is an average of scores from the four test sections (Reading, English, Math, and Science).
How to Become ACT Reading Certified
To become an ACT Reading Certified Educator, you’ll need to complete the ACT Certified Educator program, which is designed to train individuals in effective ACT education pedagogy. This program recognizes those who meet the high standards required for certification and are fully equipped to help students prepare for the ACT test.
The program offers specialized courses for each section of the ACT, including the ACT Instructional Mastery Reading course. This course is designed to provide educators with a comprehensive understanding of the ACT Reading test, including its structure, content, and effective preparation and test-taking strategies. The course is 12 hours long, conducted over two days, and can be attended virtually or on-site depending on availability and scheduling.
- Program Overview: Enroll in the ACT Certified Educator program, tailored for educators to learn effective ACT test preparation pedagogy.
- Certification: Recognizes educators who meet high standards in teaching ACT test preparation.
- Specialized Courses: Take the ACT Instructional Mastery Reading course.
- Course Duration: 12 hours spread over 2 days.
- Mode: Available both virtually and on-site.
- Content: Focuses on understanding the ACT Reading test’s structure, content, and preparation strategies.
- Registration: Specific dates and times are provided for registration. Check the course schedules for details.
- Additional Courses: Consider additional courses for comprehensive coverage.
- Courses Available: English, Math, Science, and Writing Mastery, each focusing on specific skills and strategies.
- Benefits of Certification:
- Enhanced Credentials: Boost your professional teaching credentials.
- Improved Teaching Efficiency: Gain systematic and effective strategies for ACT preparation.
- Registration and Scheduling: Check availability and register before deadlines for desired session times and formats.
This certification could significantly enhance your teaching effectiveness and credentials in preparing students for the ACT Reading section and other areas of the test.
Our Experience Teaching ACT Reading Candidates To Pass The Exam
At Career Employer, the creation of the ACT Reading practice tests has been an enlightening journey filled with achievements and important insights. We carefully honed our approach to cover the broad spectrum of exam topics and cater to the diverse needs of our learners.
Each facet of our strategy underwent rigorous scrutiny, aimed at ensuring every student is well-prepared for success on the exam. This dedication is clearly reflected in the depth and breadth of our practice materials, underscoring our commitment to delivering an educational experience that is both comprehensive and profoundly enriching.
Teaching ACT Reading certification from a lecturer’s perspective involves a strategic approach that balances the transfer of knowledge and the cultivation of critical reading skills among students. Lecturers aiming for excellence in this field focus on several key aspects to enhance their teaching effectiveness and student engagement.
- Enthusiasm and Approachability: Lecturers need to be genuinely interested in the subject matter and in their students’ learning. This enthusiasm helps in making the content engaging and in fostering a positive learning environment where students feel comfortable and valued.
- Student-Centric Feedback: Effective lecturers provide both positive and constructive feedback that helps students understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback is crucial for guiding students in refining their skills, particularly in critical reading areas which are essential for the ACT Reading section.
- Subject Expertise and Teaching Methods: A combination of deep subject knowledge and innovative teaching methods can significantly enhance learning outcomes. This includes using humor, timely feedback, and interactive teaching methods that encourage student participation and make learning more relatable and impactful.
- Peer Collaboration: Lecturers can benefit from observing and discussing their teaching methods with peers. This collaboration can provide new insights and suggestions for improvement, which are valuable for personal and professional growth in teaching.
- Leveraging Student Interactions: Engaging students in discussions about their learning and encouraging them to ask questions can also provide valuable feedback for lecturers. This approach helps in identifying areas where students struggle and allows lecturers to adjust their teaching strategies accordingly.
The role of a lecturer in ACT Reading certification is not just about delivering content but also about inspiring students and preparing them for success on the exam and beyond. This holistic approach to teaching requires continuous learning and adaptation to meet the diverse needs of students. For those interested in improving their teaching methods, resources and training such as the Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP) can be invaluable.
The ACT Reading certification practice test provided by Career Employer is a testament to our team’s steadfast dedication and deep expertise. Our specialists are distinguished for their remarkable ability to steer candidates successfully through the ACT Reading exam. Their invaluable guidance has played a crucial role in enabling over 1000 students to excel in the official ACT Reading certification exam.
Our team consists of esteemed Reading and language educators, each boasting more than ten years of committed experience in secondary school reading instruction. This profound expertise serves as the foundation of our effective training program, ensuring that each participant fully understands the subject matter and gains confidence in their reading abilities.
Effective Study Strategies and Methods
For effective study strategies tailored to the ACT Reading exam, there are several approaches recommended by experts.
Here are some of the most effective strategies:
- Understanding the Exam Structure: Know that the ACT Reading test consists of four passages—prose fiction, social science, humanities, and natural science. Each has a distinct style and content focus, which can influence the complexity and types of questions asked.
- Targeted Practice: It’s crucial to identify and strengthen your weaknesses. For example, if you struggle with inference questions, focus your practice on these types of questions to improve. A diagnostic approach, where you start by identifying specific areas of weakness and then targeting those areas in your practice, is highly effective.
- Effective Time Management: The reading section allows approximately 53 seconds per question, making time management a key skill. Learning how to quickly discern the main ideas and important details without getting bogged down in less relevant information can help maximize your test-taking efficiency.
- Strategic Reading: Start with the passages that are easiest for you to comprehend and save the more challenging ones for last. This method ensures that you are working most efficiently through the test, securing all the points you comfortably can before tackling the more difficult questions.
- High-Quality Practice Materials: Use official ACT practice tests as much as possible because they best mimic the actual exam conditions and question styles. This ensures you are practicing with materials that accurately reflect what you will face on test day.
- Consistent Review and Practice: Regular and structured practice is vital. Going through high-quality practice questions regularly can help solidify your understanding and improve your speed and accuracy on the actual test day.
- Reading Strategies: Learn to quickly identify the structure, main idea, and author’s purpose in each passage. Additionally, being able to distinguish between directly stated facts and inferred meanings is crucial for answering the questions correctly.
Cost
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic ACT Fee (No Writing) | USD 68.00 |
| Basic ACT Fee (With Writing) | USD 93.00 |
| Late Registration | USD 38.00 |
| Test Date/Center Change Fee | USD 44.00 |
| Additional Score Report | USD 18.50 each |
| Test Information Release (Before/After Test) | USD 32.00 / USD 40.00 |
| Score Verification (Per Section) | USD 58.00 |
| Score Verification (Both Sections) | USD 116.00 |
The costs associated with taking the ACT, specifically for the Reading section, encompass several fees, from registration to preparation and potential post-exam expenses.
- Exam Fees:
- The basic ACT test fee is USD 68.00 without the writing section, and USD 93.00 with the writing section included.
- Late registration adds USD 38.00, and changes to your test date or center cost an additional USD 44.00.
- If you need scores sent to more than four colleges, there are extra charges starting at USD 18.50 for each additional score report.
- Study and Preparation Costs:
- The ACT offers a range of preparation materials, some of which are free, such as online practice tests for all subject areas. These free resources are designed to help understand the exam format and type of questions asked.
- For more comprehensive preparation, you can purchase the Official ACT Prep Guide or subscribe to the ACT Kaplan Test Prep Suite. Prices for these materials are not listed on the ACT website, so they may vary.
- Post-Exam Fees:
- Additional score reports (after the initial four free reports) are priced at USD 18.50 each.
- If you request a detailed Test Information Release (TIR), which provides a copy of the questions, your answers, and the answer key for your test date, the fee is USD 32.00 if ordered before the test and USD 40.00 if ordered afterwards.
- Score verification fees are USD 58.00 for either the multiple-choice section or the writing section alone, and USD 116.00 for both sections if you need to verify scores due to discrepancies.
Overall, the total cost can vary significantly based on the options and services you select. Fee waivers are available for eligible students, which can help reduce the overall cost of taking the ACT.
Reliable Study Materials and Resources
Here are some of the best online resources to help you prepare for the ACT Reading certification exam:
- Official ACT Website: Offers a variety of tools, including free online practice tests, digital flashcards, and live online classes in partnership with Kaplan. This site provides the most authentic preparation experience as it’s from the creators of the ACT test. The official prep guide available on the site also features full-length practice tests and comprehensive tips.
- Khan Academy: Although primarily known for SAT prep, Khan Academy’s resources are invaluable for brushing up on fundamental skills that are also tested on the ACT, such as math and reading comprehension. Their lessons are free and cover a wide range of topics that can help strengthen your overall test skills.
- Magoosh: Offers an extensive array of free resources including video lessons and practice tests. The site is particularly good for interactive learning and offers a blog with tips and strategies for tackling the ACT. Magoosh also hosts a highly recommended YouTube channel, providing concise and informative video tutorials.
- SupertutorTV on YouTube: This channel has a library of videos that focus on ACT prep, providing strategic advice and practical tips in an easily digestible format. Although no new videos are being added, the existing collection is still very relevant and useful.
- Mometrix: Provides a comprehensive online ACT prep course that includes lessons, practice questions, video tutorials, and flashcards. It’s a resource-rich platform that supports a wide range of learning styles and can be accessed from multiple devices.
These resources provide a mix of free and paid options, allowing you to choose according to your preparation needs and budget. They are designed to offer both comprehensive and specific subject area preparation, helping you achieve a well-rounded readiness for the ACT Reading exam.
Tips for Exam Day
To maximize your performance on the ACT Reading section on exam day, here are some effective strategies and tips, consolidated from various resources:
- Skimming and Question Focus: Start by skimming the passages to get a gist of the content before diving into the questions. This allows you to understand the main ideas without getting bogged down in details. When you read the questions, they will guide you to specific parts of the passage for more in-depth reading.
- Time Management: It’s crucial to manage your time effectively. Spend no more than about 45 seconds per question. If a question seems too challenging, mark it and move on; you can return to it if time permits. Starting with the passages that you feel most confident about can also save time and boost your initial confidence.
- Use High-Quality Practice Materials: Practice with realistic ACT materials. The best sources for ACT practice are official tests because they mimic the style and substance of the actual exam.
- Process of Elimination: Employ the process of elimination rigorously. Often, it’s easier to identify incorrect answers than the correct one, especially in tricky inference questions. Discard any answer choices that are not directly supported by the text.
- Review and Learn from Mistakes: Regularly practice under timed conditions and review any mistakes to identify patterns or particular question types that are challenging for you. Focus your studies on these weak areas to improve.
- Stay Positive and Relaxed: Your mindset can significantly influence your performance. Approach the test with curiosity and an open mind. Believe in your preparation and stay calm, which helps in maintaining focus and efficiently processing information.
- Physical and Mental Preparation: Ensure you’re well-rested and have eaten a healthy breakfast on the day of the exam. These factors can greatly impact your energy levels and concentration.
By integrating these strategies into your preparation and applying them on exam day, you’ll be better positioned to maximize your ACT Reading score. Remember, consistent practice and a confident, calm approach on test day are key to success.
Post-Exam: Next Steps
After completing the ACT Reading exam, you have several effective strategies at your disposal to ensure ongoing improvement and preparedness for future exams.
- Reflection on Performance: The first step post-exam should be to reflect on how you performed. Utilize tools like the Post-Exam Reflection Worksheet provided by the Learning Center at Washington University. This resource helps you analyze your test-taking strategies and the areas you can improve for future exams.
- Review and Reinforcement of Knowledge: Engage in activities that consolidate and stretch your understanding of the exam material. Techniques like DIRT (Dedicated Improvement and Reflection Time) are recommended to focus on learning rather than just performance. This involves dissecting the questions to understand their core requirements and then planning steps to improve on them in future settings.
- Developing Effective Study Habits: According to EduMed, it’s crucial to create a balanced study schedule, which includes regular breaks to maintain mental sharpness. It’s also beneficial to take full advantage of any review sessions offered and engage actively in study groups if your teachers do not organize these sessions. Moreover, the night before future exams, prioritize getting enough sleep rather than cramming, as well-rested students tend to perform better.
- Practical Exam-taking Tips: On future exam days, ensure you’re well-prepared. This includes arriving early, reading through the test instructions carefully, and having a strategy for tackling the test efficiently. Also, ensure you’re well-fed and hydrated to maintain focus throughout the exam.
Implementing these strategies will not only help you reflect on your recent ACT Reading exam but also enhance your preparedness and performance in future assessments. Each step focuses on building a robust foundation for lifelong learning and test-taking proficiency.
References
- ACT – https://www.act.org/
- ACT Certified Educator – https://global.act.org/content/global/en/products-and-services/act-certified-educator.html
- ACT Instructional Mastery for K-12 Schools – https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/act-instructional-mastery/k12-schools.html
- ACT Reading Test Tips – https://www.act.org/content/act/en/students-and-parents/high-school-success/testing-advice-for-the-act/act-reading-test-tips.html
- ACT Registration Fees – https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration/fees.html
- Free ACT Test Prep – https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/free-act-test-prep.html
- ACT Test Preparation – https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation.html
- Emerald Insight Article – https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/17581181211273110/full/html
- Khan Academy – https://www.khanacademy.org/
- How to Improve as a Lecturer – https://online.liverpool.ac.uk/how-to-improve-as-a-lecturer/
- Best Online ACT Prep by Magoosh – https://magoosh.com/hs/act/best-online-act-prep/
- ACT Reading Practice Test by Mometrix – https://www.mometrix.com/academy/act-reading-practice-test/
- 14 Last-Minute ACT Tips by Prepscholar – https://blog.prepscholar.com/14-last-minute-act-tips-you-should-use
- 15 ACT Tips and Tricks by Prepscholar – https://blog.prepscholar.com/15-act-tips-and-tricks-to-improve-your-act-score
- Improving Your ACT Reading Score Tips by Prepscholar – https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-improve-your-act-reading-score-tips
- Best Way to Practice ACT Reading by Prepscholar – https://blog.prepscholar.com/the-best-way-to-practice-act-reading
- Best Way to Read the ACT Reading Passage by Prepscholar – https://blog.prepscholar.com/the-best-way-to-read-the-act-reading-passage
- ACT Reading Strategies by Princeton Review – https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/act-reading-strategies
- Prospects for Students and Graduates – https://www.prospects.ac.uk/
- Reddit post on improving ACT reading score – https://www.reddit.com/r/ACT/comments/wvtrnq/how_can_i_bring_up_my_reading_act_score/
- Reddit post on ACT tips – https://www.reddit.com/r/ACT/comments/vtf5ig/arguably_the_best_and_most_detailed_tip_for_act/
- Ideas by Royal Society of Chemistry – https://edu.rsc.org/ideas
- Post-Exam Reflection Worksheet by Washington University in St. Louis – https://ctl.wustl.edu/learningcenter/resources/post-exam-reflection-worksheet/
- EduMed – https://www.edumed.org/
- Magoosh HS (SAT & ACT) (Magoosh HS (SAT & ACT)) – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtsCpVW3sFeXfpD8V3ga46Q
- Kathleen Jasper (How to crush the ACT Reading Test | Tips and Practice Test | Kathleen Jasper) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGlTtLVz8Js
- PrepPros – SAT & ACT Test Prep (How To Get A Perfect 36 on the ACT Reading Test – 5 Tips and Strategies From A Perfect Scorer) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsQJL7_BKeg
