ACT Science

A comprehensive guide to mastering the ACT Science section, focusing on data analysis, scientific reasoning, and real-world applications.

Understanding the ACT Science SectionReading Graphs, Tables, and ChartsScientific Investigation and Experimental Design
Analyzing Conflicting ViewpointsInterpreting Scientific Trends and PredictionsScientific Models and Real-World Phenomena
Applying ACT Science Skills to Everyday LifeScience in Environmental and Social IssuesCritical Thinking for Informed Decisions
Efficient Time ManagementElimination and Educated GuessingActive Reading and Annotation
Understanding the AC...Reading Graphs, Tabl...Scientific Investiga...Analyzing Conflictin...Interpreting Scienti...Scientific Models an...Applying ACT Science...Science in Environme...Critical Thinking fo...Efficient Time Manag...Elimination and Educ...Active Reading and A...
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Conflicting Viewpoints

What Are Conflicting Viewpoints?

Some ACT Science passages present two or more scientists who disagree. Your job is to compare their ideas, spot the differences, and decide what evidence supports each view.

Steps to Analyze

  1. Read Each Viewpoint Carefully: Take notes on what each person believes and why.
  2. Identify Main Points of Disagreement: Often, they differ on causes, results, or explanations.
  3. Find Supporting Evidence: Look for data or reasoning that backs up each side.
  4. Stay Neutral: Your task is to understand, not pick a side.

Question Types

  • What does Scientist 1 believe?
  • How do their explanations differ?
  • Which data would support one view over the other?

Everyday Application

Understanding different perspectives helps you make informed decisions, whether it’s about science or social issues.

Examples

  • Identifying why two scientists disagree about the cause of global warming.

  • Choosing which experiment would help resolve a debate about nutrition.

In a Nutshell

Comparing viewpoints builds critical thinking by challenging you to understand and evaluate evidence.

Key Terms

Evidence
Facts or data that support a claim or viewpoint.
Hypothesis
A statement that can be tested by experiments or observations.
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Interpreting Scientific Trends and Predictions