Starting in September 2015, ACT will introduce a number of enhancements to the ACT writing test. Key differences between the former and the enhanced designs are outlined below.
Writing PromptMany elements of the writing prompts will remain the same. For example, the test is still an exercise in argumentative writing, and it continues to measure core competencies that are linked to college and career success.
Additional Resources
Modifications to the writing prompt will build on the former design in a few important ways:
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A broader range of engaging subject matter
Presents controversies around school-themed issues
Presents conversations around contemporary issues
Prompt offers different points of access to the issue
Gives positions for/against the issue
Offers three diverse perspectives that encourage critical engagement with the issue
Writing task more clearly resembles real-world argumentation
Asks students to take a position on the issue
Asks students to develop an argument that puts their own perspective in dialogue with others
More structure for planning and more time for composing
30 minutes to plan and compose
Blank space for planning
40 minutes to plan and compose
Guidance and structure for planning and prewriting
Scoring and reporting for the ACT writing test have also been updated. Instead of one holistic score, students will receive four domain scores, each reflecting a key dimension of writing competency. They will also receive a subject-level Writing Score and an English Language Arts (ELA) Score on the familiar 1–36 scale. This allows for precise evaluation of student writing and a more detailed score report.
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Former ACT Writing Scores
(Through the June 2015 Test Event)Holistic Writing Score
2–12
Subject-Level Writing Score
1–36
Individual Domain Scores
[/td]Ideas and Analysis
2–12
Development and Support
2–12
Organization
2–12
Language Use and Conventions
2–12
Combined English/Writing Score
1–36
ELA score (an average of the English, reading and writing tests)
1–36
