Basic Approach to Writing the ACT Essay

Basic Approach:

• Read the Prompt
• Form your own perspective
• Read Perspectives 1, 2,  and 3
• Determine the points in which you agree or disagree
• Brainstorm specific points to write about that include the following
• 1 - 2 sentences that explain the main point of the passage
• 1 sentence the states your opinion
• Brainstorm your argument (i.e. explain why you are right)
• Think of details and explanations to support your argument and perspective
• Explain how your perspective interacts with the 3 perspectives given:
• Work from the one you agree with the most to the one you agree with the least
• Brainstorm concluding remarks
• Organize your essay before writing:

I.  Introduction -- make sure you state the focus of the passage

II.  Explain your perspective 

A.  Clearly state your perspective

B.  Give a clear argument regarding how your perspective is the right one

C,  Include specific details to support your argument 

1.  Make up or give actual statistics/data if you need

2.  Make up or give actual stories if you need

III.  Address the perspective you most agree with

A.  Compare similarities and differences

B.  Include specific details to support your comparisons, if necessary

1.  Make up or give actual statistics/data if you need

2.  Make up or give actual stories if you need

III.  Address the perspective you kind of agree with and kind of disagree with

A.  Compare similarities and differences
B.  Include specific details to support your comparisons, if necessary

1.  Make up or give actual statistics/data if you need

2.  Make up or give actual stories if you need

III.  Address the perspective you most disagree with

A.  Compare similarities and differences

B.  Include specific details to support your comparisons, if necessary

1.  Make up or give actual statistics/data if you need

2.  Make up or give actual stories if you need

IV.  Conclusion

A.  Restate the focus of the passage

B.  Restate your thesis (i.e. your perspective)

C.  Summarize the issues with Perspectives 1, 2, and 3

D.  Leave concluding thoughts that solidify your viewpoint.

• START WRITING!!