My oldest is finishing his freshman year of HS. He took the April 2015 ACT. His only previous attempt at the ACT was in February 2013 for Duke TIP. His composite score improved from a 24 to a 30. I expected his math score to improve the most given that he has since completed Algebra I and Geometry, and is taking Algebra II currently. Math went from 20 to 30. English improved 8 points to 33, Science 4 points to 30, and Reading 2 points to 27.
He didn't do any special preparation for either test. (The main reason to take it now this early is in anticipation of applying to Gatton Academy and/or Craft Academy next winter, and Governor's Scholar program after that.) Sophomore course load will include Precal, Honors Chem, AP Physics, Honors English, AP World, and Spanish III. Junior and senior year will be as rigorous as possible, mostly AP classes. Relatively average public suburban HS. Motivated energetic competitive kid. Despite encouragement doesn't like to read novels, classics, etc. Reads a fair amount but for information primarily.
He seems to want to shoot for either a highly selective college and/or competitive merit scholarships down the road. This is my first go around with this, but if these are his goals based on what I have gathered it would be helpful in maximizing his chances if his score climbs to at least 34 or higher.
This is what I am curious about. Given the above, do you think it is likely he will get there without a lot of special prep or effort? Are there certain HS classes you think were most helpful? What happened with your kids in terms of seeing their scores progress during the HS years? In one sense, my attitude is whatever happens happens. At the same time, I want to help him reach his goals and don't want to look back and realize he just missed the mark and there were some simple things we could done differently that would have improved his shot.
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