ACT Science

A comprehensive guide to mastering the ACT Science section, focusing on data analysis, scientific reasoning, and real-world applications.

Understanding the ACT Science SectionReading Graphs, Tables, and ChartsScientific Investigation and Experiments
Conflicting Viewpoints PassagesAnalyzing Experimental DesignInterpreting Scientific Data
Applying Science Skills in Daily LifeUnderstanding Scientific News and ReportsProblem Solving and Critical Thinking
Time Management for ACT ScienceElimination and Guessing StrategiesActive Reading of Science PassagesIdentifying Question TypesReviewing and Checking Answers
Understanding the AC...Reading Graphs, Tabl...Scientific Investiga...Conflicting Viewpoin...Analyzing Experiment...Interpreting Scienti...Applying Science Ski...Understanding Scient...Problem Solving and ...Time Management for ...Elimination and Gues...Active Reading of Sc...Identifying Question...Reviewing and Checki...
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Experimental Design

What Makes a Good Experiment?

Understanding how an experiment is set up helps you spot strengths and weaknesses in the design.

Key Elements

  • Independent Variable: What is changed.
  • Dependent Variable: What is measured.
  • Controls: What is kept constant.

Evaluating Design

  • Are the variables clearly identified?
  • Are there enough trials or samples?
  • Is there a control group?

In Everyday Life

Knowing how to assess experimental design helps you judge the reliability of studies you hear about in the news or online.

Examples

  • Identifying a missing control group in a drug trial

  • Evaluating whether an experiment tests only one variable at a time

In a Nutshell

Assessing experimental design is vital for evaluating the quality of scientific research.

Key Terms

Control Group
A group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment, used as a benchmark.
Variable
Any factor that can be changed or measured in an experiment.
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Interpreting Scientific Data