ACT has recently released the ACT report for Iowa school districts regarding college readiness. The ACT consists of curriculum-based tests of educational development in English, mathematics, reading, and science designed to measure the skills needed for success in first year college coursework.
Benton Community had 90 students participate in the ACT assessment in 2012. This is the largest group of students taking the ACT in the past five years. Here is a summary of the average ACT result as compared to the State:
English: Benton 22.0 State 21.6
Math: Benton 22.3 State 21.7
Reading Benton 23.1 State 22.5
Science Benton 22.8 State 22.2
Composite Benton 22.7 State 22.1
ACT research has shown that it is the rigor of coursework - rather than simply the number of core courses - that has the greatest impact on ACT performance and college readiness. In order to ensure that all students are ready for college and work, ACT recommends the following action plan:
1. Create a common focus.
2. Establish high expectations for all students.
3. Require a rigorous curriculum.
4. Provide student counseling.
5. Measure and evaluate the progress.
