ACT Science Test

The ACT Science Test assesses students' scientific reasoning skills through analysis of scientific information and data.

Understanding Scientific PassagesInterpreting Graphs and TablesScientific Reasoning Skills
Analyzing Experimental DesignEvaluating Scientific HypothesesIntegrating Information from Multiple Sources
Applying Scientific Reasoning in Daily LifeUnderstanding Scientific Claims in the MediaUsing Data to Make Informed Decisions
Time Management During the TestSmart Approaches to Multiple Choice Questions
Understanding Scient...Interpreting Graphs ...Scientific Reasoning...Analyzing Experiment...Evaluating Scientifi...Integrating Informat...Applying Scientific ...Understanding Scient...Using Data to Make I...Time Management Duri...Smart Approaches to ...
Basic Concepts

Scientific Reasoning Skills

What Is Scientific Reasoning?

Scientific reasoning is the ability to analyze information, make predictions, and draw conclusions based on evidence. The ACT Science Test checks your ability to think like a scientist.

Skills Involved

  • Identifying Variables: Figuring out what is being changed or measured.
  • Making Predictions: Using trends to guess what happens next.
  • Drawing Conclusions: Deciding what the results mean.

Steps to Reasoning

  1. Observe the data or experiment setup.
  2. Ask, "What is changing?" and "What is being measured?"
  3. Use logic and evidence to answer questions.

Everyday Applications

From deciding which phone to buy (by comparing features) to understanding nutrition labels, scientific reasoning is a valuable life skill.

Examples

  • Determining which variable caused a rise in temperature during an experiment.

  • Predicting what would happen if the amount of sunlight increased for plants.

In a Nutshell

Develop the ability to analyze, predict, and conclude based on scientific data.

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Analyzing Experimental Design