Gwinnett students continue to outperform their peers in the state and across the nation on the ACT Assessment, a college-entrance exam that assesses high school students’ general educational development and their ability to successfully complete college-level work. The ACT covers four skill areas— English, mathematics, reading, and science— with multiple-choice tests. An optional writing test measures skill in planning and writing a short essay.
In Gwinnett, last year’s test-takers posted an average composite score of 22.6 out of a possible 36, compared to 21.4 for the state and 21.0 for the nation. This past year, 4,953 students took the test.
A review of local school results show that eight Gwinnett schools increased average composite scores by .5 or more between 2015–16 and 2016–17: Central Gwinnett; Collins Hill; Discovery; Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology; Lanier; Mill Creek; Shiloh; and South Gwinnett. Other schools experiencing an increased average composite score include Archer HS, Berkmar HS, Brookwood HS, and Peachtree Ridge HS. Scores at three other high schools— Dacula, Mountain View, and North Gwinnett— remained unchanged.
“The ACT is based on what students learn in high school and provides personalized information about their strengths for education and career planning,” says Dr. Jonathan Patterson, associate superintendent of Curriculum and Instructional Support. “In Gwinnett, we use our students’ performance on the ACT and other national assessments as a key indicator as to the progress we are making in preparing students for college and careers.”
The ACT is a test used by colleges and universities to predict how well students will perform at the postsecondary level. Students are encouraged to take the ACT as well as the SAT college-admission exam to provide a broad range of information for admissions counselors.
Gwinnett students have several opportunities to take the ACT this school year, with the next testing dates set for Oct. 28 and Dec. 9. Registration deadlines for the two dates are Sept. 22 and Nov. 3, respectively. Test-takers can find an ACT Test overview online with a study guide, sample questions via their ACT Profile log in, and testing tips.