A Parent’s Guide to Preparing High School Sophomores for the ACT Test

Are you a parent of a high school sophomore, wondering how to best support your child in preparing for their first ACT test? Here are a few ways to help you navigate through this important milestone in your child’s academic journey.

Understanding the ACT Math Section:

• Algebra, while crucial, constitutes only 12-15% of the “Preparing for Higher Math” section, which is makes up 60% of the overall math test.

• The remaining 40% focuses on integrating essential skills, such as rates, percentages, proportional relationships, geometry, and more.

Math Preparation Tips:

• Students who have completed algebra I and geometry typically possess sufficient math knowledge to aim for a college-ready score of 22 or higher.

• Encourage your child to review algebra and geometry over the summer to solidify their foundational math skills.

• Utilize online resources like mathchops.com to reinforce concepts and practice problems.

Additional Strategies for Success:

• Consider enrolling your child in small group classes tailored to sophomores or first-time test takers. These classes provide valuable insights into the ACT format, timing, and expectations.

• Foster a reading habit during the summer break. Encourage your child to engage in both high-interest novels and nonfiction reading.

• For novel reading, encourage daily reflection on the plot, characters, and themes to enhance comprehension skills.

• Explore nonfiction sources like ScienceDaily.com to improve reading comprehension, English skills, and scientific knowledge.

Why Reading Matters:

• Strong reading skills are essential for success across all ACT sections, including English, Reading, and Science.

• Regular reading improves vocabulary, critical thinking, and analytical skills, which are valuable for tackling ACT passages and questions.

As your child embarks on their journey to prepare for the ACT test, remember that support and guidance from parents play a crucial role in their success. By focusing on foundational math review, attending preparatory classes, and fostering a love for reading, you can help your high school sophomore feel confident and well-prepared for their first ACT experience.

Laura Link Avatar

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