web01.fireside.fm Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:35:13 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Chad Cargill's ACT Test Prep - Episodes Tagged with “High School” https://podcast.chadcargill.com/tags/high%20school Thu, 29 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill took the ACT test 18 times in high school raising his score 13 points and scoring in the 99.5 percentile. He is the nation's leading ACT test prep workshop presenter having taught nearly 250,000 students over the last 32 years. He travels the Midwest each school day teaching students, faculty, and parents how to beat the ACT. His full workshop schedule can be found at calendar.chadcargill.com. His website is chadcargill.com. en-us episodic Practical tips to increase ACT scores and win scholarships Chad Cargill Chad Cargill took the ACT test 18 times in high school raising his score 13 points and scoring in the 99.5 percentile. He is the nation's leading ACT test prep workshop presenter having taught nearly 250,000 students over the last 32 years. He travels the Midwest each school day teaching students, faculty, and parents how to beat the ACT. His full workshop schedule can be found at calendar.chadcargill.com. His website is chadcargill.com. no act, chad cargill, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test, classes Chad Cargill chad@chadcargill.com 58: My Graduation Speech and Challenge to the Class of 2021 https://podcast.chadcargill.com/58 791b3653-9004-49eb-9bde-6fb8ab31b80d Thu, 29 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill To the graduates of the Class of 2021, congratulations on your high school accomplishments. Now, I challenge you to live a life that matters. 16:57 no To the graduates of the Class of 2021, congratulations on your high school accomplishments. Now, I challenge you to live a life that matters. act, high school, college, class of 2021, graduation To the graduates of the Class of 2021, congratulations on your high school accomplishments. Now, I challenge you to live a life that matters.

]]> To the graduates of the Class of 2021, congratulations on your high school accomplishments. Now, I challenge you to live a life that matters.

]]> 57: Live Q&A at the End of an Online Workshop https://podcast.chadcargill.com/57 c7a24ee7-8ee9-477b-bea3-c33aaa27ec77 Thu, 15 Apr 2021 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Listen in as students post questions at the end of one of my online workshops. I answer as they are posted, and you can listen to all my answers in this episode. 17:29 no Listen in as students post questions at the end of one of my online workshops. I answer as they are posted, and you can listen to all my answers in this episode. Q&A, act, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test, classes Listen in as students post questions at the end of one of my online workshops. I answer as they are posted, and you can listen to all my answers in this episode.

]]> Listen in as students post questions at the end of one of my online workshops. I answer as they are posted, and you can listen to all my answers in this episode.

]]> 56: Why You Should Never Take the 5th Experimental Section of the ACT https://podcast.chadcargill.com/56 cd76341f-4c74-47d9-bba3-8ea777aea097 Thu, 08 Apr 2021 10:15:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Most ACT tests now have a 5th experimental section. Most stay and try on this section. In this episode, I explain what this section is and why you should never take it. 18:11 no Most ACT tests now have a 5th experimental section. Most stay and try on this section. In this episode, I explain what this section is and why you should never take it. 5th experimental, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test Most ACT tests now have a 5th experimental section. Most stay and try on this section. In this episode, I explain what this section is and why you should never take it.

]]> Most ACT tests now have a 5th experimental section. Most stay and try on this section. In this episode, I explain what this section is and why you should never take it.

]]> 55: Trouble Finishing the Reading Test? This Trick Can Immediately Raise Your Score https://podcast.chadcargill.com/55 d3f5c3d1-08fb-42ce-b262-3b3c5b78ace0 Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill If you find yourself running out of time in reading, many students give up on the last passage. Using this simple tip, students who struggle finishing reading can immediately raise their scores. 16:41 no If you find yourself running out of time in reading, many students give up on the last passage. Using this simple tip, students who struggle finishing reading can immediately raise their scores. act, high school, prep, reading, speed, test If you find yourself running out of time in reading, many students give up on the last passage. Using this simple tip, students who struggle finishing reading can immediately raise their scores.

]]> If you find yourself running out of time in reading, many students give up on the last passage. Using this simple tip, students who struggle finishing reading can immediately raise their scores.

]]> 52: 9 Ways to Stay Focused During the ACT Test https://podcast.chadcargill.com/52 6fe9ebbb-c104-4d7a-87fe-9c8d8ac08590 Thu, 04 Mar 2021 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Recently, I was asked during a workshop, "How do I stay focused during the ACT test?" In today's episode, I give 9 ways you can stay focused during the test. Let me know which ones of these distractions apply to you and how you handled them. 24:28 no Recently, I was asked during a workshop, "How do I stay focused during the ACT test?" In today's episode, I give 9 ways you can stay focused during the test. Let me know which ones of these distractions apply to you and how you handled them. act, high school, prep, focus, distractions Recently, I was asked during a workshop, "How do I stay focused during the ACT test?" In today's episode, I give 9 ways you can stay focused during the test. Let me know which ones of these distractions apply to you and how you handled them.

]]> Recently, I was asked during a workshop, "How do I stay focused during the ACT test?" In today's episode, I give 9 ways you can stay focused during the test. Let me know which ones of these distractions apply to you and how you handled them.

]]> 51: 2 Important Rule Changes and How You Should Adjust https://podcast.chadcargill.com/51 ea3abf4e-251a-43e1-993e-372c8d8d7fd0 Thu, 25 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill In this episode, we discuss two important rule changes that may affect when you take the ACT and how you keep time during the test. 17:24 no In this episode, we discuss two important rule changes that may affect when you take the ACT and how you keep time during the test. act, high school, watch, rule change, time In this episode, we discuss two important rule changes that may affect when you take the ACT and how you keep time during the test.

]]> In this episode, we discuss two important rule changes that may affect when you take the ACT and how you keep time during the test.

]]> Episode 50: Math - What is Tested? A Detailed Look at the July 2020 National ACT Math Test https://podcast.chadcargill.com/50 b7796ea8-7564-458b-920a-d5672dd6a1e4 Thu, 18 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Have you ever wondered what percent of the math test is geometry? Or maybe you wonder if certain math topics are tested. In this episode, we go question by question from the July 2020 national ACT test. We look at the concepts tested and break down what percentage of questions are each category. 15:46 no Source: ACT.org (https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/scores/understanding-your-scores.html) Mathematics 60 Preparing for higher math (57-60%) Number & Quantity (7–10%) Algebra (12–15%) Functions (12–15%) Geometry (12–15%) Statistics & Probability (8–12%) Integrating essential skills (40-43%) Modeling act, high school, prep, math, scholarships, test Source: ACT.org (https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/scores/understanding-your-scores.html)

Mathematics 60

Preparing for higher math (57-60%)

Number & Quantity (7–10%)
Algebra (12–15%)
Functions (12–15%)
Geometry (12–15%)
Statistics & Probability (8–12%)
Integrating essential skills (40-43%)

Modeling

]]> Source: ACT.org (https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/scores/understanding-your-scores.html)

Mathematics 60

Preparing for higher math (57-60%)

Number & Quantity (7–10%)
Algebra (12–15%)
Functions (12–15%)
Geometry (12–15%)
Statistics & Probability (8–12%)
Integrating essential skills (40-43%)

Modeling

]]> Episode 49: Is the ACT Science Test Changing? https://podcast.chadcargill.com/49 d67f2015-0207-4dcc-a9b8-54d36a30e2ea Thu, 11 Feb 2021 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Although the ACT has been virtually the same for the last few decades, there are subtle changes that are important to know. In this episode, we'll discuss some of the changes you'll see in the science section of the test. 23:38 no Although the ACT has been virtually the same for the last few decades, there are subtle changes that are important to know. In this episode, we'll discuss some of the changes you'll see in the science section of the test. I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What? https://podcast.chadcargill.com/4 act, high school, prep, science, scholarships, test Although the ACT has been virtually the same for the last few decades, there are subtle changes that are important to know. In this episode, we'll discuss some of the changes you'll see in the science section of the test.

I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What?
https://podcast.chadcargill.com/4

]]> Although the ACT has been virtually the same for the last few decades, there are subtle changes that are important to know. In this episode, we'll discuss some of the changes you'll see in the science section of the test.

I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What?
https://podcast.chadcargill.com/4

]]> 45: A Look Ahead to 2021 https://podcast.chadcargill.com/45 dfc52c11-cb40-49da-9022-7f0dd6458eff Thu, 14 Jan 2021 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill As we start the new year, we reflect on the challenges of 2020 and turn our focus to a new beginning in 2021. 30:03 no As we start the new year, we reflect on the challenges of 2020 and turn our focus to a new beginning in 2021. act, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test, classes, MS As we start the new year, we reflect on the challenges of 2020 and turn our focus to a new beginning in 2021.

]]> As we start the new year, we reflect on the challenges of 2020 and turn our focus to a new beginning in 2021.

]]> Episode 41: ACT Writing - When You Should Take It and How To Get a Great Score https://podcast.chadcargill.com/41 c37b0013-1973-45a0-b7e9-c86e2a8bce26 Thu, 19 Nov 2020 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Students wonder if they should take the ACT writing test. And if so, how should the essay be written to get a great score. In this episode, we break down the ACT writing test and look at the strategies needed to maximize your score. 24:17 no Students wonder if they should take the ACT writing test. And if so, how should the essay be written to get a great score. In this episode, we break down the ACT writing test and look at the strategies needed to maximize your score. act, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test, writing Students wonder if they should take the ACT writing test. And if so, how should the essay be written to get a great score. In this episode, we break down the ACT writing test and look at the strategies needed to maximize your score.

]]> Students wonder if they should take the ACT writing test. And if so, how should the essay be written to get a great score. In this episode, we break down the ACT writing test and look at the strategies needed to maximize your score.

]]> Episode 40: How To Correctly Use Who and Whom https://podcast.chadcargill.com/40 4ecc8caa-037b-427f-9597-1300a0774f05 Thu, 12 Nov 2020 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill In high school, choosing between who and whom was very difficult for me. But once I learned a simple trick, this became one of the easiest things in the English language. In this episode, we dive back into the English section of the ACT and learn when to pick who and when to choose whom. 18:55 no In high school, choosing between who and whom was very difficult for me. But once I learned a simple trick, this became one of the easiest things in the English language. In this episode, we dive back into the English section of the ACT and learn when to pick who and when to choose whom. Louis Zamporini is a man _ I respect. It was King Henry VIII _ had six wives. I talked with Teresa _ was trying to paint the walls of her new living room. There is the new student _ you were asking about. For _ did Molly vote? _ will give the graduation speech on Friday evening? Our new neighbor, _ we met yesterday morning, works at Conoco. With _ are you rooming with for your freshman year at college? whom 2. who 3. who 4. whom 5. whom 6. Who 7. whom 8. whom He gave it to John and me/I. John and me/I went to the game. Between you and me/I, let's keep that a secret. English, ACT, test prep, who, whom, grammar In high school, choosing between who and whom was very difficult for me. But once I learned a simple trick, this became one of the easiest things in the English language. In this episode, we dive back into the English section of the ACT and learn when to pick who and when to choose whom.

  1. Louis Zamporini is a man _ I respect.
  2. It was King Henry VIII _ had six wives.
  3. I talked with Teresa _ was trying to paint the walls of her new living room.
  4. There is the new student _ you were asking about.
  5. For _ did Molly vote?
  6. _ will give the graduation speech on Friday evening?
  7. Our new neighbor, _ we met yesterday morning, works at Conoco.

  8. With _ are you rooming with for your freshman year at college?

  9. whom 2. who 3. who 4. whom 5. whom 6. Who 7. whom 8. whom

He gave it to John and me/I.

John and me/I went to the game.

Between you and me/I, let's keep that a secret.

]]> In high school, choosing between who and whom was very difficult for me. But once I learned a simple trick, this became one of the easiest things in the English language. In this episode, we dive back into the English section of the ACT and learn when to pick who and when to choose whom.

  1. Louis Zamporini is a man _ I respect.
  2. It was King Henry VIII _ had six wives.
  3. I talked with Teresa _ was trying to paint the walls of her new living room.
  4. There is the new student _ you were asking about.
  5. For _ did Molly vote?
  6. _ will give the graduation speech on Friday evening?
  7. Our new neighbor, _ we met yesterday morning, works at Conoco.

  8. With _ are you rooming with for your freshman year at college?

  9. whom 2. who 3. who 4. whom 5. whom 6. Who 7. whom 8. whom

He gave it to John and me/I.

John and me/I went to the game.

Between you and me/I, let's keep that a secret.

]]> Episode 38: Best in Class: What Some Schools Do That All Schools Should Do https://podcast.chadcargill.com/38 fefaf76a-fc84-4269-a629-702005d39bea Thu, 29 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill As I work with high schools across the country, I often say, "Man, every school should do this." In this episode, we discuss a few of these and what I label "Best in Class." 20:53 no When I worked as an engineer at Lucent Technologies, we used benchmarking to study other companies, processes, and systems. Certain practices would be identified as "Best in Class." Some high schools have features, processes, and cultures that fit the "Best in Class" standard. In this episode, we discuss a few of these and why I call these "Best in Class." act, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test, best practices, best in class When I worked as an engineer at Lucent Technologies, we used benchmarking to study other companies, processes, and systems. Certain practices would be identified as "Best in Class." Some high schools have features, processes, and cultures that fit the "Best in Class" standard. In this episode, we discuss a few of these and why I call these "Best in Class."

]]> When I worked as an engineer at Lucent Technologies, we used benchmarking to study other companies, processes, and systems. Certain practices would be identified as "Best in Class." Some high schools have features, processes, and cultures that fit the "Best in Class" standard. In this episode, we discuss a few of these and why I call these "Best in Class."

]]> Episode 35: 6 Things to Consider When Choosing Where to Take Your ACT https://podcast.chadcargill.com/35 d8b150b5-6137-4015-96aa-9221665a1565 Thu, 08 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Students often pick their testing locations strickly on location, but there are 6 key factors you should consider to find the best test center for you. 22:45 no Students often pick their testing locations strickly on location, but there are 6 key factors you should consider to find the best test center for you. act, high school, testing center, register Students often pick their testing locations strickly on location, but there are 6 key factors you should consider to find the best test center for you.

]]> Students often pick their testing locations strickly on location, but there are 6 key factors you should consider to find the best test center for you.

]]> Episode 34: How to Correctly Use Indefinite Pronouns and Raise English ACT Scores https://podcast.chadcargill.com/34 81d277a4-b95f-447a-890e-0aee37569b11 Thu, 01 Oct 2020 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 2 Chad Cargill Often, indefinite pronouns are used incorrectly. Even though I teach how to use them, I still make mistakes. Today I’m going to explain how to correctly use indefinite pronouns. And stick around for the end of the episode because I’ll tell you a small part of our adoptive family story. 22:52 no Often, indefinite pronouns are used incorrectly. Even though I teach how to use them, I still make mistakes. Today I’m going to explain how to correctly use indefinite pronouns. And stick around for the end of the episode because I’ll tell you a small part of our adoptive family story. Learn more about embryo adoption at https://www.embryodonation.org. Join Last Chance Prep Oct 2020 and you will: • Review Key Content Asked on ACTs • Solidify Your Knowledge of Math Formulas and Calculator Usage • Verify Your Method and Timing in Reading • Be Able to Ask Last Minute Questions Directly to Chad Cargill • Reduce Test Anxiety • Have Confidence You are Ready • Crush Any Last Minute Weaknesses https://academy.chadcargill.com English, ACT, test prep, indefinite pronouns, grammar, embryo, adoption, snowflake, Often, indefinite pronouns are used incorrectly. Even though I teach how to use them, I still make mistakes. Today I’m going to explain how to correctly use indefinite pronouns. And stick around for the end of the episode because I’ll tell you a small part of our adoptive family story.

Learn more about embryo adoption at https://www.embryodonation.org.

Join Last Chance Prep Oct 2020 and you will:
• Review Key Content Asked on ACTs
• Solidify Your Knowledge of Math Formulas and Calculator Usage
• Verify Your Method and Timing in Reading
• Be Able to Ask Last Minute Questions Directly to Chad Cargill
• Reduce Test Anxiety
• Have Confidence You are Ready
• Crush Any Last Minute Weaknesses

https://academy.chadcargill.com

]]> Often, indefinite pronouns are used incorrectly. Even though I teach how to use them, I still make mistakes. Today I’m going to explain how to correctly use indefinite pronouns. And stick around for the end of the episode because I’ll tell you a small part of our adoptive family story.

Learn more about embryo adoption at https://www.embryodonation.org.

Join Last Chance Prep Oct 2020 and you will:
• Review Key Content Asked on ACTs
• Solidify Your Knowledge of Math Formulas and Calculator Usage
• Verify Your Method and Timing in Reading
• Be Able to Ask Last Minute Questions Directly to Chad Cargill
• Reduce Test Anxiety
• Have Confidence You are Ready
• Crush Any Last Minute Weaknesses

https://academy.chadcargill.com

]]> Episode 26: Three Math Strategies to Increase Your Score Now https://podcast.chadcargill.com/26 05c55700-2af5-4715-8f2c-5327ee05555c Thu, 06 Aug 2020 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill Do you get stuck on an ACT math question and waste tons of time? Could you backsolve more efficiently? Do you freak out at the end of the math test because the problems are difficult and you're almost out of time? If so, this episode is for you. 23:41 no Do you get stuck on an ACT math question and waste tons of time? Could you backsolve more efficiently? Do you freak out at the end of the math test because the problems are difficult and you're almost out of time? If so, this episode is for you. If a problem is getting extremely long and difficult, you are approaching it the wrong way. You should stop working and decide whether to approach the problem another way or simply guess and go to the next problem. On trial and error problems, start with the middle choice if the choices are in order from least to greatest or greatest to least, and start with the last choice and work to the first choice if the choices are random. In general, the problems get harder as you take the test. You may want to start with problem number 60 and work back to problem number 1. act, high school, prep, math, scholarships, test Do you get stuck on an ACT math question and waste tons of time? Could you backsolve more efficiently? Do you freak out at the end of the math test because the problems are difficult and you're almost out of time? If so, this episode is for you.

  1. If a problem is getting extremely long and difficult, you are approaching it the wrong way. You should stop working and decide whether to approach the problem another way or simply guess and go to the next problem.
  2. On trial and error problems, start with the middle choice if the choices are in order from least to greatest or greatest to least, and start with the last choice and work to the first choice if the choices are random.
  3. In general, the problems get harder as you take the test. You may want to start with problem number 60 and work back to problem number 1.
]]> Do you get stuck on an ACT math question and waste tons of time? Could you backsolve more efficiently? Do you freak out at the end of the math test because the problems are difficult and you're almost out of time? If so, this episode is for you.

  1. If a problem is getting extremely long and difficult, you are approaching it the wrong way. You should stop working and decide whether to approach the problem another way or simply guess and go to the next problem.
  2. On trial and error problems, start with the middle choice if the choices are in order from least to greatest or greatest to least, and start with the last choice and work to the first choice if the choices are random.
  3. In general, the problems get harder as you take the test. You may want to start with problem number 60 and work back to problem number 1.
]]> Episode 24: Calculators: What are the Rules This Week? https://podcast.chadcargill.com/24 db6ac796-7dee-490b-b4c5-48620c74647e Thu, 23 Jul 2020 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill ACT keeps changing the calculator rules. They are enforced differently at various test centers. In this episode, we discuss the latest rules, and I explain how ACT has completely lost control governing the math test. 29:54 no ACT oulines calculator rules on their site actstudent.org. The rules have changed a lot over the last two decades. Below are the links and explanations from their website as of July 15, 2020. http://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/ACT-calculator-policy.pdf https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/help.html You can call 800.498.6481 for a recorded message containing highlights from this policy. Can I use a calculator? The ACT calculator policy is designed to ensure fairness for all examinees, avoid disturbances in the testing room, and protect the security of the test materials. For more information view the latest Calculator Policy (PDF). Please visit our FAQ for Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality for more information. Frequently Asked Questions - Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality Note: These FAQs may be updated from time to time. Q1: How does the policy apply to calculators that cannot hold programs and documents? A: Not all calculators have the capability to hold programs and documents. If the calculator you bring to take the ACT Mathematics Test cannot hold programs and documents, then these clarifications do not affect you. Q2: What is computer algebra system (CAS) functionality? A: A computer algebra system typically solves equations algebraically, simplifies expressions, performs algebraic manipulations, and performs exact arithmetic (for example, does not round or truncate decimal places). A computer algebra system is also a system, potentially doing many levels of analysis at the same time. Examples include, but are not limited to, Zoom-Math, APP4MATH, F2K, etc. Q3: Why can't I use a computer algebra system on the ACT Mathematics test? A: A computer algebra system has a valid place in mathematics, and learning how to use the tool effectively is valuable. The ACT Mathematics Test does not assess this skill. Being college and career ready in mathematics requires that a student be able to analyze algebraic expressions and equations, knowing what to do in order to solve problems. Q4: My calculator holds apps as well as programs. Are apps allowed? A: Apps that have CAS functionality must be removed as well. Even though your calculator may have separate buttons or places to store apps versus programs, an app is a kind of program. For the purposes of this policy, the definition of “program” includes apps. Any time the word “program” is used, it should be interpreted to include apps as well. Q5: Do ALL programs have to be removed? What about documents? A: Only programs that have CAS functionality must be removed. All documents, however, must be removed regardless of their purpose or function. Q6: Can you tell me if a specific program or app is allowed? A: Given the proliferation of math resources/tools, ACT is not fully familiar with all mathematics programs and apps that are available for use on a calculator. If you are unsure whether a program or app is prohibited, our recommendation is to not install it or remove it before test day. Q7: Is it OK to disable programs instead of removing them? A: ACT's calculator policy calls for the programs to be removed. Disabling programs – for example, putting the calculator in Press to Test mode – is not enough. Q8: If I have to remove programs from my calculator, how do I get them back on it after I test? A: Many calculators have a way of restoring programs if they have been saved outside the calculator. If you have programs that you need to remove and you do not know how to save and restore, we recommend you check with your calculator company for details well in advance of test day. Q9: What kinds of mathematics-related programs ARE allowed? A: The kinds of mathematics-related programs permitted for the ACT allow students to use the calculator capabilities to do the routine calculations yet require students to show their analysis skills by choosing the right operations and process. Mathematics-related programs are allowed if they are single-purpose – for example, finding numeric solutions to a quadratic equation. A student must choose the right program for the right purpose. This is much the same as choosing the right formula for the right purpose. Q10: Are there any rules that allowed mathematics-related programs must follow? A: Programs must be written in the language of the calculator. Programs written in a different language, compiled, and loaded onto the calculator are not allowed. In this way, the programs can be examined on the calculator and will use calculator functions. Programs must not be lengthy. The limit is 25 logical lines of code. Programs cannot call another program. Techniques such as compressing code into a data statement are not allowed as a way of getting around this limit. Programs are allowed to change the value of system variables so that results may, for example, be graphed through the normal calculator graphing interface. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! act, math, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test, calculators, TI-83, TI-84, TI-Inspire ACT oulines calculator rules on their site actstudent.org. The rules have changed a lot over the last two decades.

Below are the links and explanations from their website as of July 15, 2020.

http://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/ACT-calculator-policy.pdf

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/help.html

You can call 800.498.6481 for a recorded message containing highlights from this policy.

Can I use a calculator?

The ACT calculator policy is designed to ensure fairness for all examinees, avoid disturbances in the testing room, and protect the security of the test materials. For more information view the latest Calculator Policy (PDF).

Please visit our FAQ for Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions - Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality
Note: These FAQs may be updated from time to time.

Q1: How does the policy apply to calculators that cannot hold programs and documents?
A: Not all calculators have the capability to hold programs and documents. If the calculator you bring to take the ACT Mathematics Test cannot hold programs and documents, then these clarifications do not affect you.

Q2: What is computer algebra system (CAS) functionality?
A: A computer algebra system typically solves equations algebraically, simplifies expressions, performs algebraic manipulations, and performs exact arithmetic (for example, does not round or truncate decimal places). A computer algebra system is also a system, potentially doing many levels of analysis at the same time. Examples include, but are not limited to, Zoom-Math, APP4MATH, F2K, etc.

Q3: Why can't I use a computer algebra system on the ACT Mathematics test?
A: A computer algebra system has a valid place in mathematics, and learning how to use the tool effectively is valuable. The ACT Mathematics Test does not assess this skill. Being college and career ready in mathematics requires that a student be able to analyze algebraic expressions and equations, knowing what to do in order to solve problems.

Q4: My calculator holds apps as well as programs. Are apps allowed?
A: Apps that have CAS functionality must be removed as well. Even though your calculator may have separate buttons or places to store apps versus programs, an app is a kind of program. For the purposes of this policy, the definition of “program” includes apps. Any time the word “program” is used, it should be interpreted to include apps as well.

Q5: Do ALL programs have to be removed? What about documents?
A: Only programs that have CAS functionality must be removed. All documents, however, must be removed regardless of their purpose or function.

Q6: Can you tell me if a specific program or app is allowed?
A: Given the proliferation of math resources/tools, ACT is not fully familiar with all mathematics programs and apps that are available for use on a calculator. If you are unsure whether a program or app is prohibited, our recommendation is to not install it or remove it before test day.

Q7: Is it OK to disable programs instead of removing them?
A: ACT's calculator policy calls for the programs to be removed. Disabling programs – for example, putting the calculator in Press to Test mode – is not enough.

Q8: If I have to remove programs from my calculator, how do I get them back on it after I test?
A: Many calculators have a way of restoring programs if they have been saved outside the calculator. If you have programs that you need to remove and you do not know how to save and restore, we recommend you check with your calculator company for details well in advance of test day.

Q9: What kinds of mathematics-related programs ARE allowed?
A: The kinds of mathematics-related programs permitted for the ACT allow students to use the calculator capabilities to do the routine calculations yet require students to show their analysis skills by choosing the right operations and process. Mathematics-related programs are allowed if they are single-purpose – for example, finding numeric solutions to a quadratic equation. A student must choose the right program for the right purpose. This is much the same as choosing the right formula for the right purpose.

Q10: Are there any rules that allowed mathematics-related programs must follow?
A: Programs must be written in the language of the calculator. Programs written in a different language, compiled, and loaded onto the calculator are not allowed. In this way, the programs can be examined on the calculator and will use calculator functions. Programs must not be lengthy. The limit is 25 logical lines of code. Programs cannot call another program. Techniques such as compressing code into a data statement are not allowed as a way of getting around this limit. Programs are allowed to change the value of system variables so that results may, for example, be graphed through the normal calculator graphing interface.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> ACT oulines calculator rules on their site actstudent.org. The rules have changed a lot over the last two decades.

Below are the links and explanations from their website as of July 15, 2020.

http://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/ACT-calculator-policy.pdf

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/help.html

You can call 800.498.6481 for a recorded message containing highlights from this policy.

Can I use a calculator?

The ACT calculator policy is designed to ensure fairness for all examinees, avoid disturbances in the testing room, and protect the security of the test materials. For more information view the latest Calculator Policy (PDF).

Please visit our FAQ for Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions - Computer Algebra System (CAS) Functionality
Note: These FAQs may be updated from time to time.

Q1: How does the policy apply to calculators that cannot hold programs and documents?
A: Not all calculators have the capability to hold programs and documents. If the calculator you bring to take the ACT Mathematics Test cannot hold programs and documents, then these clarifications do not affect you.

Q2: What is computer algebra system (CAS) functionality?
A: A computer algebra system typically solves equations algebraically, simplifies expressions, performs algebraic manipulations, and performs exact arithmetic (for example, does not round or truncate decimal places). A computer algebra system is also a system, potentially doing many levels of analysis at the same time. Examples include, but are not limited to, Zoom-Math, APP4MATH, F2K, etc.

Q3: Why can't I use a computer algebra system on the ACT Mathematics test?
A: A computer algebra system has a valid place in mathematics, and learning how to use the tool effectively is valuable. The ACT Mathematics Test does not assess this skill. Being college and career ready in mathematics requires that a student be able to analyze algebraic expressions and equations, knowing what to do in order to solve problems.

Q4: My calculator holds apps as well as programs. Are apps allowed?
A: Apps that have CAS functionality must be removed as well. Even though your calculator may have separate buttons or places to store apps versus programs, an app is a kind of program. For the purposes of this policy, the definition of “program” includes apps. Any time the word “program” is used, it should be interpreted to include apps as well.

Q5: Do ALL programs have to be removed? What about documents?
A: Only programs that have CAS functionality must be removed. All documents, however, must be removed regardless of their purpose or function.

Q6: Can you tell me if a specific program or app is allowed?
A: Given the proliferation of math resources/tools, ACT is not fully familiar with all mathematics programs and apps that are available for use on a calculator. If you are unsure whether a program or app is prohibited, our recommendation is to not install it or remove it before test day.

Q7: Is it OK to disable programs instead of removing them?
A: ACT's calculator policy calls for the programs to be removed. Disabling programs – for example, putting the calculator in Press to Test mode – is not enough.

Q8: If I have to remove programs from my calculator, how do I get them back on it after I test?
A: Many calculators have a way of restoring programs if they have been saved outside the calculator. If you have programs that you need to remove and you do not know how to save and restore, we recommend you check with your calculator company for details well in advance of test day.

Q9: What kinds of mathematics-related programs ARE allowed?
A: The kinds of mathematics-related programs permitted for the ACT allow students to use the calculator capabilities to do the routine calculations yet require students to show their analysis skills by choosing the right operations and process. Mathematics-related programs are allowed if they are single-purpose – for example, finding numeric solutions to a quadratic equation. A student must choose the right program for the right purpose. This is much the same as choosing the right formula for the right purpose.

Q10: Are there any rules that allowed mathematics-related programs must follow?
A: Programs must be written in the language of the calculator. Programs written in a different language, compiled, and loaded onto the calculator are not allowed. In this way, the programs can be examined on the calculator and will use calculator functions. Programs must not be lengthy. The limit is 25 logical lines of code. Programs cannot call another program. Techniques such as compressing code into a data statement are not allowed as a way of getting around this limit. Programs are allowed to change the value of system variables so that results may, for example, be graphed through the normal calculator graphing interface.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 19: Master These 5 Comma Rules and Raise Your ACT Score https://podcast.chadcargill.com/19 686df874-53a9-45a6-86ad-f03c4a0cab12 Thu, 18 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill Master these five comma rules and watch your ACT English score soar. 18:06 no There are five key comma rules you must know to score well in ACT English. 1. Use a comma to separate main clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction. The common coordinating conjunctions are and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet. A main clause is one that has both a subject (s) and a verb (v). EX: We went to the store, and we spent our money. S/V, and S/V. -Some memorize the conjunctions with the word FAN BOYS 2. Set off words, phrases, and clauses that are not needed (nonessential). Use commas around nonessential, transitional, or contrasting information. Non-restrictive elements function much like appositives. 3 Examples Below: 1. Intense preparation, then, is known to produce higher test scores. (transitional) 2. Robert Frost, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is known for his poem “Birches.” (nonessential) 3. Robert Kurson, not Stephen King, is my favorite author. (contrasting) 3. Use a comma after an introductory phrase, clause, and adverb. Short introductory prepositional phrases do not require commas unless needed for clarity. 3 Examples Below: 1. To be able to compete on the collegiate level, many high school athletes practice their sport all year. 2. If you are counting on a college scholarship, pay attention to your grades, class rank, community service, and standardized test scores. 3. Occasionally, the person actually responsible for the vandalism will be caught and pay the damage. 4. A series can be defined as three or more words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence that have the same grammatical rank. EX: I am taking biology, calculus and history. -The comma before the word _and _is optional. 5. Use commas to separate adjectives in a series that describe the same word. EX: The old, blue shirt was worn today. EX: The dark blue shirt was worn today. The second sentence does not have a comma between dark and blue because dark describes blue; whereas, in the first sentence old does not describe blue. -Can you replace the comma with the word and? -Can you reverse the words? Pages 41-49 of Chad Cargill's ACT prep book provides these rules, examples, exercises, and model ACT questions. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! English, ACT, test prep, commas, grammar There are five key comma rules you must know to score well in ACT English.

1. Use a comma to separate main clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction. The common coordinating conjunctions are and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet. A main clause is one that has both a subject (s) and a verb (v).

EX: We went to the store, and we spent our money.
S/V, and S/V.

-Some memorize the conjunctions with the word FAN BOYS

2. Set off words, phrases, and clauses that are not needed (nonessential). Use commas around nonessential, transitional, or contrasting information. Non-restrictive elements function much like appositives.

3 Examples Below:

  1. Intense preparation, then, is known to produce higher test scores. (transitional)
  2. Robert Frost, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is known for his poem “Birches.” (nonessential)
  3. Robert Kurson, not Stephen King, is my favorite author. (contrasting)

3. Use a comma after an introductory phrase, clause, and adverb. Short introductory prepositional phrases do not require commas unless needed for clarity.
3 Examples Below:

  1. To be able to compete on the collegiate level, many high school athletes practice their sport all year.
  2. If you are counting on a college scholarship, pay attention to your grades, class rank, community service, and standardized test scores.
  3. Occasionally, the person actually responsible for the vandalism will be caught and pay the damage.

4. A series can be defined as three or more words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence that have the same grammatical rank.
EX: I am taking biology, calculus and history.

-The comma before the word _and _is optional.

5. Use commas to separate adjectives in a series that describe the same word.
EX: The old, blue shirt was worn today.
EX: The dark blue shirt was worn today. The second sentence does not have a comma between dark and blue because dark describes blue; whereas, in the first sentence old does not describe blue.

-Can you replace the comma with the word and?
-Can you reverse the words?

Pages 41-49 of Chad Cargill's ACT prep book provides these rules, examples, exercises, and model ACT questions.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> There are five key comma rules you must know to score well in ACT English.

1. Use a comma to separate main clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction. The common coordinating conjunctions are and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet. A main clause is one that has both a subject (s) and a verb (v).

EX: We went to the store, and we spent our money.
S/V, and S/V.

-Some memorize the conjunctions with the word FAN BOYS

2. Set off words, phrases, and clauses that are not needed (nonessential). Use commas around nonessential, transitional, or contrasting information. Non-restrictive elements function much like appositives.

3 Examples Below:

  1. Intense preparation, then, is known to produce higher test scores. (transitional)
  2. Robert Frost, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is known for his poem “Birches.” (nonessential)
  3. Robert Kurson, not Stephen King, is my favorite author. (contrasting)

3. Use a comma after an introductory phrase, clause, and adverb. Short introductory prepositional phrases do not require commas unless needed for clarity.
3 Examples Below:

  1. To be able to compete on the collegiate level, many high school athletes practice their sport all year.
  2. If you are counting on a college scholarship, pay attention to your grades, class rank, community service, and standardized test scores.
  3. Occasionally, the person actually responsible for the vandalism will be caught and pay the damage.

4. A series can be defined as three or more words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence that have the same grammatical rank.
EX: I am taking biology, calculus and history.

-The comma before the word _and _is optional.

5. Use commas to separate adjectives in a series that describe the same word.
EX: The old, blue shirt was worn today.
EX: The dark blue shirt was worn today. The second sentence does not have a comma between dark and blue because dark describes blue; whereas, in the first sentence old does not describe blue.

-Can you replace the comma with the word and?
-Can you reverse the words?

Pages 41-49 of Chad Cargill's ACT prep book provides these rules, examples, exercises, and model ACT questions.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 10: The Right Way to Keep Time on the ACT https://podcast.chadcargill.com/10 2ba8c653-275f-4f92-a23f-bc3a3e310085 Thu, 16 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill The way most students keep time on the ACT is wrong. Listen to this episode to learn the right way. This episode teaches the easiest way to lower test anxiety and raise scores by effectively keeping your own time and working all the way to the end. 19:45 no One of the downfalls of being an inexperienced ACT test taker is you may not know how much time you have left. The tests are very long and difficult to finish. As mentioned earlier, you should always answer every question. If you run out of time without every question answered, your score will not be as high as it could be. Time seems to pass very quickly during a difficult section of the test. Be aware of the time but not terrified of it. Using a wall clock in the testing center may not be the best method. I found that trying to keep time on my watch or a simple wall clock often confused me, and concentrating solely on the test often caused me to forget when the test started and when it was supposed to end. In order to prevent this unnecessary confusion, I created my own method of time keeping. I wore a simple three-handed (hour, minute, and second) watch. Before a section began, I let the second hand on my watch rotate until it pointed to the twelve. Then I stopped the second hand from moving by pulling out the crown. Next, I adjusted the other hands so that the clock read exactly noon. Then I backed the time from noon for the amount of time allotted for the section. For example on the English test, which lasts 45 minutes, I moved the clock to read 11:15. When the test administrator said, "Go," I started the clock. I knew at all times during the test that when my watch read straight up noon, the test was over. No questions. No confusion. This method may seem somewhat ridiculous, but if you want to reduce confusion and improve your score, master a time keeping method. A digital watch can also be used if you want to purchase one, but it can not make noise or communicate such as an Apple watch. Finally, when the test administrators announce there are five minutes remaining in each section, you should ignore them. First of all, you already know the time because you are keeping time on your watch. The other reason is five minutes is a lot of time. For example, the science test is six passages designed to be of approximately equal length and difficulty. The science test as a whole is 35 minutes long. Thirty-five minutes divided by six equal passages is five minutes and 50 seconds. At the five minute call if you think your test is over and you panic, you are greatly reducing your score. Many students start guessing when the test administrator calls five minutes. If you do that, you are going to guess on approximately 24 questions total in English, math, reading, and science. If the guessing odds play out, you will get about 6 of the 24 correct. Consider the following: if you score a 19, you are getting about half the questions right. If you do this while guessing when they call five minutes, you got 6 out of 24 rather than 12 out of 24. That is a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT. Did you know that a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT is over a one composite score increase? If you are guessing at 5 minutes and scoring a 19, try the method described above, and your composite ACT score should increase to at least a 20 doing this alone! I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! test anxiety, ACT, test prep, time, timed test One of the downfalls of being an inexperienced ACT test taker is you may not know how much time you have left. The tests are very long and difficult to finish. As mentioned earlier, you should always answer every question. If you run out of time without every question answered, your score will not be as high as it could be. Time seems to pass very quickly during a difficult section of the test. Be aware of the time but not terrified of it. Using a wall clock in the testing center may not be the best method. I found that trying to keep time on my watch or a simple wall clock often confused me, and concentrating solely on the test often caused me to forget when the test started and when it was supposed to end. In order to prevent this unnecessary confusion, I created my own method of time keeping. I wore a simple three-handed (hour, minute, and second) watch. Before a section began, I let the second hand on my watch rotate until it pointed to the twelve. Then I stopped the second hand from moving by pulling out the crown. Next, I adjusted the other hands so that the clock read exactly noon. Then I backed the time from noon for the amount of time allotted for the section. For example on the English test, which lasts 45 minutes, I moved the clock to read 11:15. When the test administrator said, "Go," I started the clock. I knew at all times during the test that when my watch read straight up noon, the test was over. No questions. No confusion. This method may seem somewhat ridiculous, but if you want to reduce confusion and improve your score, master a time keeping method. A digital watch can also be used if you want to purchase one, but it can not make noise or communicate such as an Apple watch.
Finally, when the test administrators announce there are five minutes remaining in each section, you should ignore them. First of all, you already know the time because you are keeping time on your watch. The other reason is five minutes is a lot of time. For example, the science test is six passages designed to be of approximately equal length and difficulty. The science test as a whole is 35 minutes long. Thirty-five minutes divided by six equal passages is five minutes and 50 seconds. At the five minute call if you think your test is over and you panic, you are greatly reducing your score. Many students start guessing when the test administrator calls five minutes. If you do that, you are going to guess on approximately 24 questions total in English, math, reading, and science. If the guessing odds play out, you will get about 6 of the 24 correct. Consider the following: if you score a 19, you are getting about half the questions right. If you do this while guessing when they call five minutes, you got 6 out of 24 rather than 12 out of 24. That is a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT. Did you know that a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT is over a one composite score increase? If you are guessing at 5 minutes and scoring a 19, try the method described above, and your composite ACT score should increase to at least a 20 doing this alone!

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> One of the downfalls of being an inexperienced ACT test taker is you may not know how much time you have left. The tests are very long and difficult to finish. As mentioned earlier, you should always answer every question. If you run out of time without every question answered, your score will not be as high as it could be. Time seems to pass very quickly during a difficult section of the test. Be aware of the time but not terrified of it. Using a wall clock in the testing center may not be the best method. I found that trying to keep time on my watch or a simple wall clock often confused me, and concentrating solely on the test often caused me to forget when the test started and when it was supposed to end. In order to prevent this unnecessary confusion, I created my own method of time keeping. I wore a simple three-handed (hour, minute, and second) watch. Before a section began, I let the second hand on my watch rotate until it pointed to the twelve. Then I stopped the second hand from moving by pulling out the crown. Next, I adjusted the other hands so that the clock read exactly noon. Then I backed the time from noon for the amount of time allotted for the section. For example on the English test, which lasts 45 minutes, I moved the clock to read 11:15. When the test administrator said, "Go," I started the clock. I knew at all times during the test that when my watch read straight up noon, the test was over. No questions. No confusion. This method may seem somewhat ridiculous, but if you want to reduce confusion and improve your score, master a time keeping method. A digital watch can also be used if you want to purchase one, but it can not make noise or communicate such as an Apple watch.
Finally, when the test administrators announce there are five minutes remaining in each section, you should ignore them. First of all, you already know the time because you are keeping time on your watch. The other reason is five minutes is a lot of time. For example, the science test is six passages designed to be of approximately equal length and difficulty. The science test as a whole is 35 minutes long. Thirty-five minutes divided by six equal passages is five minutes and 50 seconds. At the five minute call if you think your test is over and you panic, you are greatly reducing your score. Many students start guessing when the test administrator calls five minutes. If you do that, you are going to guess on approximately 24 questions total in English, math, reading, and science. If the guessing odds play out, you will get about 6 of the 24 correct. Consider the following: if you score a 19, you are getting about half the questions right. If you do this while guessing when they call five minutes, you got 6 out of 24 rather than 12 out of 24. That is a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT. Did you know that a difference of 6 questions spread over the four sections of the ACT is over a one composite score increase? If you are guessing at 5 minutes and scoring a 19, try the method described above, and your composite ACT score should increase to at least a 20 doing this alone!

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 7: I'm a Bad Test Taker - Help Me! https://podcast.chadcargill.com/7 5785855f-514e-420d-a557-64ddc414645d Thu, 26 Mar 2020 02:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill I’ll be out, and someone sees me. She realizes I’m the ACT guy. Then she approaches me with the #1 question I get asked. Listen to this episode to hear that question and learn the one question evaluation I give to answer this question.  14:48 no The #1 question parents ask me. I’ll be out and someone sees me. She realizes I’m the ACT guy. Then she approaches me with the #1 question I get asked.  My son is a bad test taker. Help us.  Listen to this episode to hear that question and learn the one question evaluation I give to answer this question.  Go to testday.chadcargill.com to get the things you must know the day of the test. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! act, chad cargill, bad test-taker, high school, prep, qualify, scholarships, test, classes The #1 question parents ask me.
I’ll be out and someone sees me. She realizes I’m the ACT guy. Then she approaches me with the #1 question I get asked. 
My son is a bad test taker. Help us. 
Listen to this episode to hear that question and learn the one question evaluation I give to answer this question. 

Go to testday.chadcargill.com to get the things you must know the day of the test.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> The #1 question parents ask me.
I’ll be out and someone sees me. She realizes I’m the ACT guy. Then she approaches me with the #1 question I get asked. 
My son is a bad test taker. Help us. 
Listen to this episode to hear that question and learn the one question evaluation I give to answer this question. 

Go to testday.chadcargill.com to get the things you must know the day of the test.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 6: 7 Ways to Reduce Test Anxiety on the ACT https://podcast.chadcargill.com/6 580de109-c419-45d9-a491-465b2e93e923 Thu, 19 Mar 2020 01:00:00 -0500 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill While the world is anxious about the Corona virus, students are also anxious about taking an ACT. In this episode, we look at the number one reason good academic students underachieve on this test. Here are 7 practical tips you can use to immediately reduce your test anxiety. 23:31 no While the world is anxious about the Corona virus, students are also anxious about taking an ACT. The number one reason good academic students underachieve on the ACT is test anxiety. Here are 7 practical tips you can use to immediately reduce your test anxiety. Control what you can control. You can't control everything, but control what you can. Apply one, a few, or all of these tips to immediately start reducing your test anxiety. Take the test as many times as you can afford Drive to the test center before the test day Recognize everyone misses questions Familiarize yourself with your calculator Keep your own time Memorize key rules and formulas testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com) Do your best, and God will do the rest I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to testday.chadcargill.com (testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! test anxiety, ACT, test prep While the world is anxious about the Corona virus, students are also anxious about taking an ACT. The number one reason good academic students underachieve on the ACT is test anxiety. Here are 7 practical tips you can use to immediately reduce your test anxiety.

Control what you can control. You can't control everything, but control what you can. Apply one, a few, or all of these tips to immediately start reducing your test anxiety.

  1. Take the test as many times as you can afford

  2. Drive to the test center before the test day

  3. Recognize everyone misses questions

  4. Familiarize yourself with your calculator

  5. Keep your own time

  6. Memorize key rules and formulas
    [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com)

  7. Do your best, and God will do the rest

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> While the world is anxious about the Corona virus, students are also anxious about taking an ACT. The number one reason good academic students underachieve on the ACT is test anxiety. Here are 7 practical tips you can use to immediately reduce your test anxiety.

Control what you can control. You can't control everything, but control what you can. Apply one, a few, or all of these tips to immediately start reducing your test anxiety.

  1. Take the test as many times as you can afford

  2. Drive to the test center before the test day

  3. Recognize everyone misses questions

  4. Familiarize yourself with your calculator

  5. Keep your own time

  6. Memorize key rules and formulas
    [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com)

  7. Do your best, and God will do the rest

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

For a free downloadable pdf of Key Things You Must Know on Test Day, go to [testday.chadcargill.com](testday.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 4: I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What? https://podcast.chadcargill.com/4 8f5754ed-b12a-458c-9fea-db1b51704e2d Thu, 05 Mar 2020 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill You ordered the test questions, your answers, and the correct answers. What do you do with that? This episode gives you a step-by-step guide what to do. 26:20 no Episode 4: I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What? Test Information Release - $22 Available December, April, and June national tests Not available on residuals Order when you register or by logging back in to your account and adding this up to 5 days after you test. This year you can also order up to 6 months after you test by calling ACT. If you order when you register you’ll get your test about 3 weeks after you test. When it comes in the mail, you’ll receive the test questions, your answers, and the correct answers. — Now that you’ve received it, now what? Look at every question you missed and say, “Why did I miss this?” This is a two part question. You are not only looking at what was being asked that you missed, but you are also looking at what you selected that was wrong. For example, if in English the underline part was a dash and you changed it to a colon and missed it, you missed both the dash and the colon. Build a Pareto chart of your misses. Put your top missed concepts first. All misses should be shown from most missed to least missed. Spend 80% of your practice time on your top 20% of misses. — Bring your test to your teachers Teachers please work the math section with your math class. Science and English the same. — When you graduate donate it to your counseling office. — Finally, what are you reading? Make that part of your culture. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! TIR, test information release, ACT, test prep Episode 4: I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What?

Test Information Release - $22

Available December, April, and June national tests

Not available on residuals

Order when you register or by logging back in to your account and adding this up to 5 days after you test.

This year you can also order up to 6 months after you test by calling ACT.

If you order when you register you’ll get your test about 3 weeks after you test.

When it comes in the mail, you’ll receive the test questions, your answers, and the correct answers.

—
Now that you’ve received it, now what?

Look at every question you missed and say, “Why did I miss this?”

This is a two part question. You are not only looking at what was being asked that you missed, but you are also looking at what you selected that was wrong.

For example, if in English the underline part was a dash and you changed it to a colon and missed it, you missed both the dash and the colon.

Build a Pareto chart of your misses.
Put your top missed concepts first. All misses should be shown from most missed to least missed.

Spend 80% of your practice time on your top 20% of misses.

—
Bring your test to your teachers

Teachers please work the math section with your math class. Science and English the same.

—
When you graduate donate it to your counseling office.

—
Finally, what are you reading? Make that part of your culture.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 4: I Ordered My Test and Answers. Now What?

Test Information Release - $22

Available December, April, and June national tests

Not available on residuals

Order when you register or by logging back in to your account and adding this up to 5 days after you test.

This year you can also order up to 6 months after you test by calling ACT.

If you order when you register you’ll get your test about 3 weeks after you test.

When it comes in the mail, you’ll receive the test questions, your answers, and the correct answers.

—
Now that you’ve received it, now what?

Look at every question you missed and say, “Why did I miss this?”

This is a two part question. You are not only looking at what was being asked that you missed, but you are also looking at what you selected that was wrong.

For example, if in English the underline part was a dash and you changed it to a colon and missed it, you missed both the dash and the colon.

Build a Pareto chart of your misses.
Put your top missed concepts first. All misses should be shown from most missed to least missed.

Spend 80% of your practice time on your top 20% of misses.

—
Bring your test to your teachers

Teachers please work the math section with your math class. Science and English the same.

—
When you graduate donate it to your counseling office.

—
Finally, what are you reading? Make that part of your culture.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 3: 3 Reasons Why in English You Should Read the Passage as You Go https://podcast.chadcargill.com/3 87c7e0a9-3661-49a6-9420-d1dedceb3975 Thu, 27 Feb 2020 02:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill Over half of today's English ACT test-takers skip from one underline to the next. In this episode we discuss why you should never do this. 20:20 no 3 reasons why in English you should read the passage as you go 2 Types of Questions: Usage questions General passage questions Usage Underline in a sentence Grammatically correct? Punctuated correctly? 1st choice is no change. General passage questions do not have an underline part in a sentence. The first choice is usually something other than No Change. These are questions more about the passage rather than just an underlined part in a sentence. The first several ACT tests I took in high school, I didn’t read the passage. Why? I was in a hurry. 75 questions in 45 mins. When I ask students in my workshop how many skip, over half agree. Many so called experts teach this. I figured out quickly I had to read the passage as I tested; otherwise, I was having to go back and reread. As you read from one underline to the next, remember this isn’t reading comprehension. You just need to think, “In general what is happening?” “What’s the purpose of the passage?” “What’s the author’s main point?” 3 Reasons why you should read as you go: Tough to summarize an essay you didn’t read. Context Some was/were eaten. For Cat’s first birthday her mother bought her 2 cakes. Some were eaten. There were two cakes. Changing tense of the verbs. If you read a sentence by itself, the present tense verb, for example, works great. But if you read the paragraph, every other verb was past tense, and you’ll immediately make a change. So read the passage as you go. That doesn’t mean read the entire essay, then go back and answer the questions. Just read to question one, then answer question one. Then read to question two, then answer question two. If you do this, you’ll finish even faster with a higher score than not reading it. Remember this is not reading comprehension. You don’t need to know all the details. Keep asking yourself as you are reading, “In general, what is happening here?” Special thanks to Ms. Julie Garner for a great review of the podcast. Julie is an English teacher at Jim Ned HS is West Texas. This is a great podcast for those of you who are looking for some helpful advice and tips on taking the ACT. Chad Cargill is a trusted source and is the guy that some of you may have gone to see last October in Anson. Whether you went then or not, you should check this out. ~Ms. Garner -- I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! English, ACT, test, prep, chad, cargill 3 reasons why in English you should read the passage as you go

2 Types of Questions:

Usage questions

General passage questions

Usage
Underline in a sentence
Grammatically correct?
Punctuated correctly?

1st choice is no change.

General passage questions do not have an underline part in a sentence. The first choice is usually something other than No Change.

These are questions more about the passage rather than just an underlined part in a sentence.

The first several ACT tests I took in high school, I didn’t read the passage.

Why? I was in a hurry. 75 questions in 45 mins.

When I ask students in my workshop how many skip, over half agree.

Many so called experts teach this.

I figured out quickly I had to read the passage as I tested; otherwise, I was having to go back and reread.

As you read from one underline to the next, remember this isn’t reading comprehension. You just need to think, “In general what is happening?”

“What’s the purpose of the passage?”
“What’s the author’s main point?”

3 Reasons why you should read as you go:

  1. Tough to summarize an essay you didn’t read.

  2. Context

Some was/were eaten.

For Cat’s first birthday her mother bought her 2 cakes.

Some were eaten. There were two cakes.

  1. Changing tense of the verbs.

If you read a sentence by itself, the present tense verb, for example, works great.

But if you read the paragraph, every other verb was past tense, and you’ll immediately make a change.

So read the passage as you go. That doesn’t mean read the entire essay, then go back and answer the questions. Just read to question one, then answer question one. Then read to question two, then answer question two.

If you do this, you’ll finish even faster with a higher score than not reading it.

Remember this is not reading comprehension. You don’t need to know all the details. Keep asking yourself as you are reading, “In general, what is happening here?”

Special thanks to Ms. Julie Garner for a great review of the podcast. Julie is an English teacher at Jim Ned HS is West Texas.

This is a great podcast for those of you who are looking for some helpful advice and tips on taking the ACT. Chad Cargill is a trusted source and is the guy that some of you may have gone to see last October in Anson. Whether you went then or not, you should check this out.
~Ms. Garner

--
I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> 3 reasons why in English you should read the passage as you go

2 Types of Questions:

Usage questions

General passage questions

Usage
Underline in a sentence
Grammatically correct?
Punctuated correctly?

1st choice is no change.

General passage questions do not have an underline part in a sentence. The first choice is usually something other than No Change.

These are questions more about the passage rather than just an underlined part in a sentence.

The first several ACT tests I took in high school, I didn’t read the passage.

Why? I was in a hurry. 75 questions in 45 mins.

When I ask students in my workshop how many skip, over half agree.

Many so called experts teach this.

I figured out quickly I had to read the passage as I tested; otherwise, I was having to go back and reread.

As you read from one underline to the next, remember this isn’t reading comprehension. You just need to think, “In general what is happening?”

“What’s the purpose of the passage?”
“What’s the author’s main point?”

3 Reasons why you should read as you go:

  1. Tough to summarize an essay you didn’t read.

  2. Context

Some was/were eaten.

For Cat’s first birthday her mother bought her 2 cakes.

Some were eaten. There were two cakes.

  1. Changing tense of the verbs.

If you read a sentence by itself, the present tense verb, for example, works great.

But if you read the paragraph, every other verb was past tense, and you’ll immediately make a change.

So read the passage as you go. That doesn’t mean read the entire essay, then go back and answer the questions. Just read to question one, then answer question one. Then read to question two, then answer question two.

If you do this, you’ll finish even faster with a higher score than not reading it.

Remember this is not reading comprehension. You don’t need to know all the details. Keep asking yourself as you are reading, “In general, what is happening here?”

Special thanks to Ms. Julie Garner for a great review of the podcast. Julie is an English teacher at Jim Ned HS is West Texas.

This is a great podcast for those of you who are looking for some helpful advice and tips on taking the ACT. Chad Cargill is a trusted source and is the guy that some of you may have gone to see last October in Anson. Whether you went then or not, you should check this out.
~Ms. Garner

--
I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Episode 2: Why You Should Never Just Take One Section of the ACT https://podcast.chadcargill.com/2 68fb1fd6-9df9-4be6-8ead-6243e892a17e Thu, 20 Feb 2020 03:00:00 -0600 Chad Cargill full 1 Chad Cargill Today we explore ACT's new policy allowing students to take just one section of the ACT. This episode explores how these "retest" section scores are used and why you should never this. 28:06 no Chad Cargill’s ACT Test Prep Podcast Episode 2 – Why You Should Never Take Only One Section of the ACT. It is a Terrible Idea. Composite Score: From a single ACT test, the sum of your English, math, reading, and science divided by 4. This would be your highest overall ACT score from a single ACT test. Superscore: From any ACT test, your highest English, math, reading, and science divided by 4. Schools who change to superscores raise minimums for scholarships. Starting with the 2020-21 school year, ACT will allow you to retest in any section. • You must have already taken a complete ACT. • You can pick up to 3 sections. Writing will count as 1 of the 3. • Price has not been set. • Lifting the max of 12 ACT tests. Details about this new policy can be found on ACT’s FAQ page. Scroll to the section titled "ACT Section Retesting." https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/more-choices-for-the-act-sept-2020/faqs.html Why never do it? • A school has to superscore. • You may raise other sections. • Students usually get bigger gains in stronger sections. • It’s only a couple extra hours to take the other sections. Why do it? • Avoid zero level class. • Colleges superscore and you have a perfect score in 3 sections. * You have a game at noon and can't stay for all four sections. I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com (http://scholarships.chadcargill.com), and get your guide now. If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast. If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Chad-Cargill-Workshops-22077611182/?ref=bookmarks) page. To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com (http://calendar.chadcargill.com). You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com. chadcargill.com (http://www.chadcargill.com) Twitter: @ChadCargill Thanks for listening to the podcast! retest, ACT, test, chad, cargill, prep, composite, superscore, high school, college Chad Cargill’s ACT Test Prep Podcast
Episode 2 – Why You Should Never Take Only One Section of the ACT. It is a Terrible Idea.

Composite Score: From a single ACT test, the sum of your English, math, reading, and science divided by 4. This would be your highest overall ACT score from a single ACT test.

Superscore: From any ACT test, your highest English, math, reading, and science divided by 4.

Schools who change to superscores raise minimums for scholarships.

Starting with the 2020-21 school year, ACT will allow you to retest in any section.

• You must have already taken a complete ACT.
• You can pick up to 3 sections. Writing will count as 1 of the 3.
• Price has not been set.
• Lifting the max of 12 ACT tests.

Details about this new policy can be found on ACT’s FAQ page. Scroll to the section titled "ACT Section Retesting."

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/more-choices-for-the-act-sept-2020/faqs.html

Why never do it?
• A school has to superscore.
• You may raise other sections.
• Students usually get bigger gains in stronger sections.
• It’s only a couple extra hours to take the other sections.

Why do it?
• Avoid zero level class.
• Colleges superscore and you have a perfect score in 3 sections.

  • You have a game at noon and can't stay for all four sections.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

]]> Chad Cargill’s ACT Test Prep Podcast
Episode 2 – Why You Should Never Take Only One Section of the ACT. It is a Terrible Idea.

Composite Score: From a single ACT test, the sum of your English, math, reading, and science divided by 4. This would be your highest overall ACT score from a single ACT test.

Superscore: From any ACT test, your highest English, math, reading, and science divided by 4.

Schools who change to superscores raise minimums for scholarships.

Starting with the 2020-21 school year, ACT will allow you to retest in any section.

• You must have already taken a complete ACT.
• You can pick up to 3 sections. Writing will count as 1 of the 3.
• Price has not been set.
• Lifting the max of 12 ACT tests.

Details about this new policy can be found on ACT’s FAQ page. Scroll to the section titled "ACT Section Retesting."

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/more-choices-for-the-act-sept-2020/faqs.html

Why never do it?
• A school has to superscore.
• You may raise other sections.
• Students usually get bigger gains in stronger sections.
• It’s only a couple extra hours to take the other sections.

Why do it?
• Avoid zero level class.
• Colleges superscore and you have a perfect score in 3 sections.

  • You have a game at noon and can't stay for all four sections.

I’d love to connect with you and keep you posted on upcoming episodes and resources. For a free downloadable pdf What Scholarship Committees Look for and How to Win Them, go to scholarships.chadcargill.com, and get your guide now.

If you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review on your podcast app. Leave a shout out for your high school, and I may read it on a future podcast.

If you have questions, leave a comment here or on the Chad Cargill Workshops Facebook page.

To view the workshop calendar, go to calendar.chadcargill.com. You can also order the prep book Chad Cargill's ACT and sign up for speed reading at chadcargill.com. If you are interested in hosting a workshop at your high school, call our office at (405) 454-3233 or email penny@chadcargill.com.

chadcargill.com
Twitter: @ChadCargill

Thanks for listening to the podcast!

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