UNIT: MEASUREMENT

ACT-Based Reading: Evaluating Scientific Claims in Measurement

OBJECTIVE:

This activity helps students evaluate scientific arguments and conflicting viewpoints related to measurement accuracy and precision. By analyzing two differing perspectives, students develop critical reading and reasoning skills essential for ACT success.

MATERIALS NEEDED

Printed reading excerpts (provided)

Worksheet with guiding questions

Comparison chart for digital calipers vs. tape measures

Pen or pencil

Highlighters (optional)

STUDENT DIRECTIONS:

Goal:

You will evaluate two conflicting scientific viewpoints about the accuracy and usefulness of different measurement tools. This activity builds your critical reading and reasoning skills—essential for ACT Reading success and real-world decision-making in science and engineering.

Step 1: Read Both Viewpoints Carefully

Read Excerpt 1 (in favor of digital calipers) and Excerpt 2 (in favor of tape measures).

As you read, highlight or underline:

Each author’s main argument

Supporting evidence or examples

Any limitations or trade-offs mentioned

Step 2: Complete the Analysis Worksheet
Use the worksheet to answer the following questions:

Strengths & Weaknesses:

What are the strengths of each tool?

What are the limitations?

Suitability for Precision:

Which tool is more appropriate for high-precision tasks?

Use evidence from the text to explain your answer.

Industry Application:

How might engineers vs. construction workers prioritize tools differently?

Why would one group value precision while another values speed or ease?

Author’s Purpose & Tone:

How does each writer try to persuade the reader?

What is the tone of each excerpt (neutral, passionate, cautious, etc.)?

Evaluate the Claims:

Which argument is stronger overall?

What makes it more effective—logic, evidence, or clarity?

PART 3: VISUAL COMPARISON

Using the chart provided, compare the two tools across the following dimensions:

Things Needed to Prepare:

Printed excerpts for students to read

Worksheet with analysis questions

Comparison chart of digital calipers vs. tape measures