How Does the GED Test Work?

How Does the GED Test Work?

With the number of jobs that now require applicants to have a high school education, adults who do not have a diploma often face difficulties finding an employer. Fortunately, the General Education Development test (GED) provides an opportunity for these individuals to earn their high school degree. Designed to measure the person's skills in five crucial subjects--language arts, social studies, science, reading and math--the test covers the same materials taught in a traditional high school curriculum. To ensure fairness and accuracy, the GED is regularly evaluated by high school teachers, adult educators and test specialists. Additionally, the GED is then compared to the graduation exam that is given to high school seniors The creators of the GED test analyze the results of a random sampling of graduating seniors to determine appropriate GED scores (i.e., what score constitutes a passing grade). This comparison is done to ensure that the GED accurately measures the materials covered in high school.

What's on the GED?

Although the GED focuses on subjects taught in high school, the test is actually designed to measure real-life skills. Rather than asking trivial facts or formulas, the questions found on the GED evaluate the person's critical thinking, reasoning and communications skills. The language arts portion is a two-part writing test that evaluates the tester's knowledge of grammar and sentence structure. In the first portion, the user reads a small passage and is then asked to correct any mistakes he or she notices. In section two, the tester is required to write an essay on an assigned topic. The topics are opinion-based and do not require any special knowledge. Next, the social studies portion consists of multiple-choice questions regarding American history, economics or civics. The science portion of the GED analyzes the tester's ability to read tables, graphs, charts and diagrams. Once again, it consists of multiple-choice questions and covers such topics as earth science, physical science and geology. In the reading portion, the tester must read two short passages and then respond to questions that analyze the reader's comprehension of the text. Finally, the math section consists of two parts. In the first portion, users may use a calculator, while in the second portion, no calculators are allowed. Both portions measure the taker's ability to analyze data and apply mathematical concepts such as geometry and algebra.

How Do You Take the GED?

Although the GED eligibility requirements differ in each state, all applicants must be at least 16 years of age. In addition, the person may not currently be enrolled in high school and may not already have a high school diploma. If the person does meet her state's requirements, the next step is to register to take the GED. The American Council on Education (ACE) provides listings of all GED testing centers in the U.S. and also offers information on how to prepare for the exam. Once the applicant has found a testing center, she should contact the office to learn the specific dates and times that the GED is administered. In order to register for a specific time slot, she must verify her identity by showing a valid passport, military ID or driver's license. Some states may also require GED applicants to complete a practice test beforehand. Additionally, depending on the location, a fee may be required. After taking the test, scores are received within 6 to 8 weeks. If the tester fails a portion or portions of the GED, she only needs to retake those specific sections. Once the tester has passed the GED, then she is considered to have a high school diploma.

Resources

• Find the GED testing center nearest you.