The ACT is a well-known standardized test, primarily used in the United States for admission into post-high school institutions. The test is made up of four sections – English, Math, Reading, Science and an optional fifth section in Writing. For some, it poses as a source of detrimental stress and to others, indifference or even excitement for the future.
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction states that all juniors in public schools are required to take the ACT with Writing. Middleton High School’s ACT testing day of March 12, 2024 is quickly approaching. However, the school-administered ACT is seeing a substantial shift this year: it’s digital.
Juniors and their families have been receiving information about the changes as well as how to prepare throughout the past few weeks through emails and during Advisory periods. With all the information and changes in mind, MHS juniors have varied thoughts about the situation.
Some students are finding the silver lining in this new change. The ACT administered digitally would make it easier for our school administrators as well as for the official ACT graders. The digital test would also make it more accessible for students who would benefit from the highlighting, zoom, answer masking, and all the other tools provided during testing.
“At first, I thought it was bad that they were switching the ACT digitally since all the standardized tests were on paper most of the time [until now],” said MHS junior Ellen Kwon. “But, now I think it’s actually way better. [For the ACT administrators, they would save] a lot of time grading and finding test files, and for students, the test will be more accessible”.
Another positive point for this change is that the digital test is more efficient. Time isn’t spent on distributing packets and bubble sheets on testing day. According to Prep Expert, scores could even be released in just a few days; this could be nerve wracking, but very helpful for students. There have also been cases, rare but still possible, where packets and answer sheets have been lost in their commute to scoring centers. (There have been incidences where a whole class of students lost their ACT scores, meaning hundreds of tests.) Making the test digital is one very effective way to prevent this from happening altogether.
“I think the move to digital is good because [it] streamlines the whole process, making it faster, more efficient and easier for everyone,” said MHS junior Aydin Rosas. Rosas also states that he feels more secure about the safety of the scores in the digital format. “I’m for the digital movement but I understand the views of people who don’t like it.”
On the other hand, the proponents of the paper ACT assert that it’s easier to focus when not looking at a screen. Many have experienced their eyes becoming unfocused and tired after interacting with a screen for a long period of time. For some context, the ACT takes around three hours to complete with 15 and five minute breaks between some sections.
Megan Borseth (11) is disappointed by the fact that there wasn’t an option given to students to choose between modes; she believes that everyone should be able to choose how they want to take it.
“[From personal experience], I have figured out [that] I prefer paper tests because I find it easier to focus…and my eyes are less strained,” said Borseth.
MHS junior Jack Reeder agrees with Borseth.
“Having to read a paragraph on a screen sucks; it’s very different from watching TV and taking a test,” he said. “[I disagree with] getting rid of the option of a paper test.”
Another reason why Borseth likes the paper test better is because she likes being able to write on the test. Although there are many new tools that test takers can use to help them focus or cross out answers, there are individuals who prefer just plain paper and pencil to annotate, something that’s unavailable for digital tests. Many juniors are concerned about the lack of annotating tools for reading passages, math diagrams and science graphs/tables.
There are also some juniors who view the upcoming digital ACT through a perspective that has both drawbacks and benefits. Akshay Manna (11) communicates his awareness of both sides: “I have mixed feelings; for me, it’s easier to think with paper and pencil so I can sketch out my thoughts, but on the other hand, the digital test releases scores and data faster, removes the chances of filling in the wrong bubble and makes it more accessible for students with intellectual disabilities,” he said. “I see why they’re doing it, but if we’re able to take it digitally and have scratch paper to work things out, that would be a good solution.”
Manna’s idea could help the worries of the critics while maintaining what the school has decided. (In fact, the digital ACT will be providing juniors with scratch paper during the test for annotations!)
It’s obvious that there are many different reliefs and worries plaguing Middleton High School’s Class of 2025 as the ACT approaches. However, aside from the varying feelings on this upcoming ACT in just a few weeks, best of luck to our MHS juniors! You all got this.
Tips and Affirmations from The Cardinal Chronicle Editorial Board
Eunice C. – “I know how easy it is to judge your self-worth by the scores you receive. However, I hope you remember that your intellectual abilities are far more complex and interesting than a double digit number. One thing that’s helped me so much is to annotate main topics and shifts in ideas for English and Reading passages.”
Laina G. – “Don’t worry if you don’t get the score you wanted on your first, second, or even third try! In the end, your ACT score is just a number and doesn’t capture you as an entire person and capable student.”
Rajeshwari R. – “Your ACT score is just a number and does not define you in any way – never let anyone tell you otherwise!”
Keira M. – “On the day of, the most important thing is to be relaxed and comfortable. You will have already done everything to prepare yourself – whether that be studying, enrolling in challenging classes or gathering advice from other students. On the day of the test, try to be well-rested, well-fed and dressed comfortably. Above all else, remember that this day does not define your worth and the right path will open up for you regardless.”
