ACT Preparation / Unit 21 ACT 2018 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Summarizing Each Viewpoint
The idea
Each viewpoint is summarized in three steps. First, state its claim in one sentence: what causes the phenomenon. Second, list the evidence or reasoning it gives. Third, note what it predicts that the other view does not. Taking these notes before the questions, as the ACT guide suggests, makes the comparison questions quicker.
In practice
Worked example: invented scientist 1 says the fish died from low oxygen, caused by an algae bloom that consumed oxygen as it decayed. Evidence: a thick bloom seen days before. Prediction: oxygen near the bottom would read very low. Invented scientist 2 says a heat spike killed the fish directly. Evidence: the warmest week on the lake's record. Prediction: fish in deep, cool water would have survived.
Where people slip
Keep each summary in the viewpoint's own terms. Mixing in the other scientist's evidence blurs the comparison.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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