On Tuesday, April 19, the juniors at New Haven High School took the ACT (American College Testing Program). All juniors in Missouri had to take the ACT at their respective high schools.
When asked how the juniors felt before the ACT, most of the juniors had the same response. Emily Lewis explained, “It's a pretty easy exam that tests you on your basic knowledge; the problem is all of the stigma that surrounds the test. With all the preparation we do, we don't learn much content on any subject like we did in grade school. We learn testing strategies, which, in theory, is supposed to help students, but in reality, it makes students more stressed and gives some people text anxiety.”
Some of the juniors were very calm, while others were nervous.
Brady Kruse stated that he was “a little nervous, but not too worried.”
Also, Anna Miller said, “I’m not too worried; I am confident in my abilities.”
The test took about five hours, starting at 8:00 AM and ending around 1:00 PM. The test was broken up into five parts: English, math, reading, science, and writing.
Throughout the school year, teachers have been preparing the juniors for the big test. The teachers gave them strategy tips, practice tips, and a lot of encouragement.
After the ACT, most of the juniors were mentally exhausted. The juniors got a special lunch of Pizza Hut pizza as well as a nice surprise--an ice cream bar. When they returned to class, most of the juniors did absolutely nothing, while others watched movies/tv in their fourth hour classes.
Rachel Connell stated, “I was so drained and tired; it took everything out of me.”
When asked if the juniors had any advice for the upcoming sophomores who will have to take the ACT next year, the juniors had a lot to say!
Anna Miller said, “DON'T FREAK OUT OR PANIC. That is not helpful and just makes you do worse. Don't psych yourself out.”
Lucy Roth pronounced, “You can't really prepare that much for the content, so be prepared to not know the answer on a lot of the questions. Know the strategies, and find out what works best for you! Remember to stay calm and to not freak out!”
Kendall Frick stated, “Don't stress--I mean, yeah it is a big deal, but don't freak yourself out over it. And learn good time management skills.”
And lastly, Riley Otten said, “Conceal don’t feel, and it’s alright to cry.”
Overall, the ACT was intense, and the juniors are so glad it’s over. Now they are just waiting back for their scores!