Introduction to Research Summary Questions | Science for ACT PDF Download

The Research Summaries format in the ACT Science section focuses on experiments and requires understanding, evaluating, and interpreting the design, execution, and results of each experiment presented. Here are some key tips for approaching Research Summaries passages:

Identify the Purpose

• Look for the reason behind conducting the experiment, usually found at the beginning of the passage or in the first paragraph.
• Underline or circle the purpose to refer back to it later.
• Note any changes in purpose if multiple experiments are presented.

Identify the Method(s)

• Understand how the experiment was set up by identifying the method.
• Underline and circle the parts of the passage that explain the method.
• Visualize the experiment to ensure understanding, and note any alterations in the method for subsequent experiments.

Analyze the Results

• Utilize skills from Data Representation passages to analyze the results presented in graphs or tables.
• Pay attention to labels, units of measurement, and trends in the data.
• Compare results between experiments to identify similarities and differences.

Understand Independent and Dependent Variables

• Independent variables are controlled by scientists and are changed to observe different outcomes.
• Dependent variables are what is being measured or observed.

Keep Experiments Straight

• Carefully differentiate between experiments and identify their purposes, methods, and results.
• Consider similarities and differences between experiments before answering questions.

Critical Thinking Before Answering

• Before answering questions, critically analyze the experiments and their components.
• Consider what was similar and what was different between experiments to approach questions more effectively.