ACT Preparation / Unit 18 ACT 1714 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
The Paired-Passage Method
The idea
Paired passages are read in four steps. First, read passage A and state its central claim and its main evidence. Second, do the same for passage B. Third, compare the claims: where do the authors agree, where do they differ, and on what kind of point, a fact, a value or a solution? Fourth, answer each question from the passage it names, and answer comparison questions from your comparison.
In practice
Worked example: invented passage A, by a city forester, argues that street trees cool neighborhoods and should be planted widely, citing temperature readings. Invented passage B, by a sidewalk contractor, agrees that trees cool streets but argues that their roots crack sidewalks, citing repair costs, and proposes planting only in wider strips. Agreement: trees cool streets. Difference: how widely to plant, a disagreement over costs and solutions, not over the cooling fact.
Where people slip
This method is the course's own derivation from the anchor's brief account of synthesis. The comparison in step three is the work the paired questions rely on.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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