Identifying Key Variables and Patterns in ACT Science

Why is it important to interpret tables and figures in science passages for the ACT Science test?

• To understand the scientific method

• To identify the main idea of the passage

• To use the information for answering questions

• To memorize scientific facts

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.7

CCSS.RI.9-10.7

CCSS.RL.6.7

CCSS.RL.7.7

CCSS.RL.9-10.7

What should you take notice of in tables and figures?

• The color of the figures

• The title of the table

• Variables, units of measurement, and patterns

• The length of the passage

What is an independent variable?

• A variable that changes when the dependent variable changes

• A variable that remains constant

• A variable that is intentionally changed by the scientist

• A variable that is measured in the results

In the example of measuring the height of a bean sprout, what is the independent variable?

• The type of soil used

• The height of the bean sprout

• The amount of water given

• The amount of full sunlight

Tags

CCSS.6.EE.C.9

In the first bat experiment, what was the independent variable?

• The beam of light

• The time of day

• The number of bats

• The environment of the caves

In the second bat experiment, what was the dependent variable?

• The duration of the light beam

• The bats' response to the light

• The number of bats

• The environment of the caves

Tags

CCSS.2.MD.A.3

What does Table 1 show?

• The effects of light on bats

• The effects of temperature on the rate of growth of two strains of microorganisms

• The effects of soil type on plant growth

• The effects of water on plant growth

Tags

CCSS.2.MD.A.3

What are the units of measurement in Table 1?

• Degrees Fahrenheit

• Meters

• Liters

• Degrees Celsius

Tags

CCSS.6.SP.B.5

What happens to strain A as the temperature increases?

• Its rate of growth decreases

• It stops growing

• Its rate of growth increases

• Its rate of growth remains the same

What is the key takeaway for interpreting figures and tables in the ACT Science test?

• You need to ignore the figures and tables

• You need to memorize the data

• You need to identify patterns and locate key information

• You need to understand the science behind the experiments