The Influence Of Taking High School Physics As [A] Junior On Act Science Scores

Abstract

In recent years, policymakers, parents, and business
leaders have expressed concern about the lack of student
success on standardized tests in science. While the
consensus is that the problem needs to be addressed, there
is little agreement about how to achieve the increased test
scores. This study examines the role of the specific
science sequencing of biology, chemistry and physics
completed by the junior year and increased ACT science test
scores. This study compared the achievement of students who
took physics as a junior with students who took physics as
a senior on the ACT science test. This study continued by
examining the increased ACT science test success of
students in the top 25% of their graduating class who took
physics by their junior year and those that did not.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Steven W. Daniels (Supervisor)