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Ideas and Analysis: This domain focuses on the ability to generate productive ideas and to analyze the multiple perspectives and complexities of an issue. It also addresses the ability to generate a thesis that takes a clear position on the issue.

• ACT.WR.IA.1(Objective)

  Understand and interpret the prompt, including the issue and multiple perspectives presented.

• ACT.WR.IA.2(Objective)

  Generate relevant ideas and insights related to the issue.

• ACT.WR.IA.3(Objective)

  Analyze the complexities of the issue, including considering multiple viewpoints and their underlying assumptions or values.

• ACT.WR.IA.4(Objective)

  Formulate a clear and arguable thesis statement that takes a specific position on the issue.

• ACT.WR.IA.5(Objective)

  Demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between the writer's perspective and other perspectives on the issue.

• ACT.WR.IA.6(Objective)

  Explore the implications and consequences of the writer's argument and other perspectives.

Development and Support: This domain focuses on the ability to discuss the issue, including the writer’s own perspective and other perspectives; and to provide support for claims with logical reasoning and specific, well-chosen examples.

• ACT.WR.DS.1(Objective)

  Develop ideas with specific details, examples, and illustrations.

• ACT.WR.DS.2(Objective)

  Provide logical reasoning to support claims and connect evidence to the thesis.

• ACT.WR.DS.3(Objective)

  Effectively discuss the writer's own perspective in relation to other perspectives on the issue.

• ACT.WR.DS.4(Objective)

  Support claims with relevant and sufficient evidence, including specific examples from experience, observation, or reading.

• ACT.WR.DS.5(Objective)

  Explain the significance of evidence and how it supports the argument.

• ACT.WR.DS.6(Objective)

  Address counterarguments or alternative viewpoints effectively.

Organization: This domain focuses on the ability to organize ideas with a clear and logical structure. It addresses the ability to use an effective introduction and conclusion; to group ideas logically; and to use transitions to connect ideas.

• ACT.WR.ORG.1(Objective)

  Craft an effective introduction that engages the reader and establishes the context and thesis.

• ACT.WR.ORG.2(Objective)

  Organize ideas logically within paragraphs and across the essay as a whole.

• ACT.WR.ORG.3(Objective)

  Use effective paragraphing to group related ideas.

• ACT.WR.ORG.4(Objective)

  Employ transitions (words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs) to ensure smooth connections between ideas and sections.

• ACT.WR.ORG.5(Objective)

  Develop a clear and logical line of reasoning throughout the essay.

• ACT.WR.ORG.6(Objective)

  Provide an effective conclusion that reinforces the thesis and provides a sense of closure.

Language Use and Conventions: This domain focuses on the ability to use language effectively and to adhere to the conventions of standard written English. It addresses word choice, sentence structure, and grammar, usage, and mechanics.

• ACT.WR.LUC.1(Objective)

  Use precise and appropriate word choice (diction).

• ACT.WR.LUC.2(Objective)

  Construct varied and effective sentence structures.

• ACT.WR.LUC.3(Objective)

  Maintain a consistent and appropriate tone and style.

• ACT.WR.LUC.4(Objective)

  Demonstrate command of standard English grammar and usage (e.g., subject-verb agreement, pronoun agreement, verb forms).

• ACT.WR.LUC.5(Objective)

  Demonstrate command of standard English mechanics (e.g., punctuation, capitalization, spelling).

• ACT.WR.LUC.6(Objective)

  Write with clarity and concision, avoiding ambiguity, wordiness, and redundancy.