In the ACT writing test, you are asked
to respond to a writing prompt. You are
given a choice between two prompts; you
should respond to only one of the prompts.
You are given 60 minutes to complete your
response.
THE KEY CHARACTERISTICS OF ALL
ACT WRITING PROMPTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
TOPIC: The
prompts always refer to issues around
communities or schools.
SITUATION: There
is always a situation or problem to be
resolved.
PROPOSAL: The
prompt always has two proposals to choose
from.
CRITERION
(BASIS) OF DECISION: The
prompt always specifies a criterion
that must be the basis for
defending
the
proposal you choose.
AUDIENCE: The prompt always instructs
you to address your response to a specific
audience, such as a City Council or a college
or school official.
FORMAT: The
prompt always instructs you to write your
response in a letter format.
The Following
is a Sample ACT Writing Prompt:
A Parks Board in a large
city has received a generous donation
and wants to use the donation
to benefit the city as a whole.
The Board is considering two options,
but there is only enough funding
for one. One option is to improve
the city's parks by planting more
flower gardens and creating more
recreational areas. The other
option is to improve the overall
appearance of the city by planting
flower beds and small trees along
city streets and at intersections.
Write a letter to the Parks Board
in which you argue for improving
the city's parks or for improving
the appearance of the city, explaining
how your choice will benefit the
city as a whole. Begin your letter:
Dear Parks Board:
