As the ACT approaches on March 11, juniors at West Field High School (WF) are starting to prepare for this crucial college entrance exam. With the pressure to perform well, the school’s counselors, teachers and students have shared some useful tips to help students get ready.
As the ACT test date approaches, school counselors are impressing upon juniors the importance of preparation. Among them is Jamie Pilkington, one of the school counselors, who emphasizes the importance of practice. She recommends an online resource called Shmoop, saying, “Shmoop is a fantastic ACT resource that offers tons of practice tests to help you get familiar with the exam format.” To access Shmoop, students need to use the “magic word,” which is “topaz.” This resource, along with several others found on the counselor’s website, makes it easier for students to get ready for the big test.
To gain insights into the preparation process, I spoke with two juniors, Annika Paskatt and Annie Hansen, who both attended the ACT prep class offered at WF. Paskatt found the class beneficial, stating, “It was helpful because it taught us the format of the test. I would recommend taking the class if you want a clear overview.” On the flip side, Hansen had a contrasting opinion: “I felt it involved too much busy work and repetitive exercises.” Both of these juniors’ opinions may not be in favor with each other but it can be helpful for those who are thinking about taking the prep class. Should you want that extra practice and layout of the ACT then it would be beneficial to take the class.
Steven Godfrey, who teaches the ACT prep class, explained why he believes the class is useful but not entirely necessary. “The prep class emphasizes constant practice and exposure to the test format, which can really help students feel more confident,” he said. While he supports the idea of taking the prep class, Godfrey also stresses the importance of consistent practice throughout high school, regardless of whether students enroll in the prep course.
The ACT lasts about three hours and includes a break between sections, which gives students a moment to recharge and relax. Counselors are reminding everyone that on test day, it’s crucial to bring either a school ID or a driver’s license, as this is needed for identification.
Despite the numerous resources available and the proactive support from counselors, there is a noticeable concern that many juniors still seem unmotivated to prepare adequately for the ACT. With college admissions hinging on these scores, it is crucial for students to prioritize their preparation efforts.
As the first class to tackle the ACT at WF, there’s a lot at stake, and the community is hopeful that students will take advantage of the resources available to them. Every bit of preparation counts, and aiming for strong scores on the ACT will undoubtedly pave the way for future success in college applications and beyond.
