Science Passage Strategy

Reading Science Passages

• 4-7 paragraphs with figures, graphs, and experimental data
• Read the passage first, note hypothesis and experimental design
• Identify variables: independent, dependent, controlled
• Don't memorize details — refer back as needed

Data Interpretation

• Read axis labels, units, and scales FIRST
• Identify trends: direct, inverse, or no correlation
• Tables: cross-reference rows and columns

Experimental Design

• Control group vs. experimental group
• Positive control validates the assay; negative control confirms no false positives
• Randomization and blinding reduce bias
• Statistical significance: p < 0.05

Common Traps

• Extreme answers are usually wrong
• Data in the passage ≠ support for the answer
• Answer the question asked, not what you think they should ask
• If two answers are opposites, one is likely correct