The prompts used for the ACT Writing Test always: describe an issue relevant to high school students

s ask examinees to write about their perspective on the issue

Notice: All Prompts are set up with the same format.

As a starting place, two different perspectives on the issue are provided. Examinees may choose to support one of these perspectives or to develop a response based on their own perspective. Students must quickly identify the critical attributes of the prompt: -The Issue -Two Positions with support for Each -The Question

For each prompt, identify the critical attributes:

1) Circle the issue 2) Underline the two positions on this issue 3) Circle the question 4) Complete the following charts to generate ideas for writing

In some states, the legislature has decided that students in kindergarten through twelfth grade should attend school year round. These students have four short (two-three week) breaks between quarters of ten to eleven weeks. Some people favor this type of school year arrangement, arguing that year-round school provides less down time for students and ensures that students remember more information and learn faster. Others argue that students need a long summer break to unwind and to pursue interests outside of school. Should schools operate year round? In your essay, take a position on this question. You may write about either one of the two points of view given, or you may present a different point of view on this question. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

Support

Counter

In some high schools, many teachers and parents have encouraged the school to adopt a dress code that sets guidelines for what students can wear in the school building. Some teachers and parents support a dress code because they think it will improve the learning environment in the school. Other teachers and parents do not support a dress code because they think that it restricts the individual student's freedom of expression. Should high schools adopt dress codes for students? In your essay, take a position on this question. You may write about either one of the two points of view given, or you may present a different point of view on this question. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

Support

Counter

Some educators and legislators are debating shortening high school to three years. They argue that this move would help schools and, therefore, states save money without having a large impact on students' education; furthermore, many view that senior year of high school as largely a social time when homecoming, snowcoming, and prom are seen as more important to students than serious academic studies. Finally, without a fourth year of high school, students who plan on entering the work force can begin their careers a year earlier, and students who plan on continuing their education can do so a year earlier at a community college or a four-year academic institution. Other educators and legislators are opposed to shortening high school to three years. They assert that many students use their senior year to extend their academic studies, that others take advantage of valuable career exploration and skill-building at their technology centers, and that most students use their fourth year of high school to mature and to make themselves emotionally ready to assume the responsibilities of adulthood. Should high school be shortened to three years?

In your essay, take a position on this question. You may write about either one of the two points of view given, or you may present a different point of view on this question. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

Support

Counter