This is a brief summary of ACT preparation given at a parent workshop by Al Silberstein, an Educational Specialist for the US Army.
Educational Planning
Select classes that will strengthen your skills in reading, math and reasoning. Do NOT take a class because it is easy. Your core classes will help you on the ACT.
The Year Before the ACT
Take practice ACT tests to determine which areas have the most room for improvement. Actively participate in a program to help practice your ACT skills. There are many programs ranging from free to thousands of dollars. Some free internet sites are March2Success.com and UtahFutures.org. There are many CD-Rom programs, classes and books to help study. You can even check your local library. The two things to consider as you select are how the student learns and what will the student do.
The Month Before the ACT
Use the State Standardized Test Preparation for the areas of weakness using March2Success. It starts with a pre-test to determine where there are gaps in learning. After the pre-test, lessons are created to help fill in those gaps. It is a great way to focus on the areas of need.
The Week Before the ACT
Take a practice test on the area(s) of focus. This will be the last time.
The Night Before the ACT
Do not do anything with testing. However, this isn’t the time to stay out late with friends. Get a good night’s sleep.
The Morning of the ACT
Wake up and get ready. Taking the time to groom will cue the brain that it is time to wake up and be alert. Eat a good breakfast. Arrive with a picture id, your ACT ticket, #2 pencils and a calculator ready to take the test. Rooms usually load around 7:45 am. DO NOT take your cell phone into the testing room.
