What are some the most challenging grammar concepts tested on the ACT and SAT writing sections?

Answer 1

The *single* most difficult question type on the SAT Writing and Language test is unquestionably the one known to the testmakers as "Logical Comparison." Even students scoring at the very top of the scale are vulnerable when it comes to Logical Comparison questions. One example from practice test #10 (October 2018 test) is #20. "Students who were required to volunteer . . . did less regular volunteer work ------- not required to volunteer.

A. than the service hours of those

B. than did students who were

C. than hours worked by students

D. compared with students

See what I mean??? Tough, right? Answer is B. Good news is that the test does not have tons of this question type. More good news is that a good tutor can help you to IDENTIFY this kind of question--that's critical--in order to then proceed to slay it.

Answer 2

In my experience, one of the foremost concepts that is tested on the ACT or SAT is the distinction between independent clauses and dependent clauses -- that is, what comprises a sentence and what doesn't? As pointed out by my fellow tutor Peter F., this concept can be illustrated through editing or correcting punctuation or rearranging clauses in a sentence.

For instance, consider the following question: Which of the following contains an error in grammar or punctuation?

A. Susan went to the grocery store after she finished at the dentist.

B. After she finished at the dentist, Susan went to the grocery store.

C. Susan went to the grocery store, after she finished at the dentist.

D. Once her dental appointment was complete, Susan went to the grocery store.

Answer choice C is the correct answer (indicating it has an error in grammar or punctuation). This is due to the comma separating the Independent and Dependent clauses when the Independent Clause comes first. Ultimately, approaching this question relies upon identifying whether a clause is independent or not (can it stand alone as a sentence while still making sense?), and then applying the appropriate rules.

Additionally, the basic rules for using commas, colons, and semicolons appear in some form on all of these tests. In my opinion, the ACT focuses more on grammar, punctuation, and mechanics, and the SAT incorporates more questions regarding arrangement and cohesion.

Answer 3

I would say some of the most challenging grammar concepts tested on the ACT and SAT Writing sections include:

-Rearranging sentences in paragraph passages so that the underlying writing is more concise.

-(for some students) Editing/correcting punctuation and capitalization within the corresponding sentence structure.

-Adding or removing sentences from the writing samples provided according to the multiple choice options therefor.

I hope this helps! Good luck with your studying for these tests!!