On Nov. 2, all freshmen will take the Explore-ACT test, and sophomores and juniors will take the Plan-ACT test. Both of the tests are similar in that they evaluate students’ level of ability in English, reading, math, and science.
Both the Explore-ACT and Plan-ACT tests are preliminary tests to prepare students for the ACT (American College Testing), while revealing levels of college readiness in students.
The Explore-ACT and Plan-ACT tests evaluate students’ science scores. Tests such as the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) do not test student’s science academic skills, making the information a much needed asset to teaching. Students, however, may take an SAT Subject Test in various science subjects.
Testing begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 11:25 a.m., with three, five-minute breaks throughout. The afternoon schedule will remain the same as always, with students going to their regular lunch, and attending classes.
Seniors can visit with college representatives between 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the Commons and are to report to their fifth period or go to lunch as usual.
These tests on Nov. 2 differ from other tests in that they are funded through Gear-Up, virtually costing students nothing to take the tests and supplying them with highly valuable information. Gear-Up will continue to sponsor the testing until the end of the program, August 2011. The administration is looking into how the tests will be funded in the future. Unlike other tests, the Explore-ACT allows students to see specific areas of acceleration as well as areas in need of work or progress. Not only do the Explore-ACT and Plan-ACT tests highlight strength areas on score reports, but offer suggestions for improving skills.
The test also shows areas of career interest as well, based upon an interest inventory test. “It’s going to give them a skills analysis, giving them an opportunity to set goals,” associate principal Mira Gobel said.
The sole purpose of the Plan-ACT test is to determine if students are ready for Advanced Placement courses, with enough time for students to enroll in such courses. This is why the test is primarily aimed at sophomores and juniors.
The Plan-ACT test predicts students’ possibility of passing AP tests with a score of three or higher based on their scores from the test. Students with a 75 percent chance of scoring a three or higher are encouraged to enroll, and are likely to succeed in an AP Course.
The Plan-ACT test also prepares students for the actual ACT test, as well as allows them to explore career/training options and enroll in corresponding classes.
These Pre-ACT tests will allow students and parents to see exactly where students are in their academic progress and analyze college readiness. ”[This is an] exciting adventure for Wa-Hi,” Gobel said.
For the Nov. 2 ACT testing schedule, click here .
