GED Help and Resource Guide

Worksheetsdirect.com

2011-01-01T15:40:00.004-06:00

Check out this new website, www.worksheetsdirect.com It has free math worksheets that you can download and use.

They also have been adding short learning videos. Their latest one is on the different types of fractions.

It is a great resource for anyone who has limited resources for prepping for their GED.

Help! I Can't Pass the GED Math Test

2010-06-24T20:02:00.000-05:00

Have you heard these words! Or perhaps you have voiced your own concern.

I hear "Help, I can't pass the GED Math test" alot! I recently had a young lady come to our Adult Learning Center desperate for help to pass the GED Math test. She had taken it twice and failed it both times.

When I began to talk to her, I realized that her challenge was more than a lack of math understanding. She told me that she is a single mom responsible for a 6 year old child. Also, she is soon going to loose her job and didn't know what she was going to do when that happens. She has ALOT on her mind.

In addition, she works full-time and she can only come once in a while to work with an instructor.

But she REALLY wants to take and pass the GED math test!

If you are a student who has a similar circumstance or are a teacher who has students like this, you are very familiar with the emotions that go with needing/wanting to complete the GED.

What I did in this situation was to find a good GED math book which I lent to her. I also encouraged her to take time, even a little time, each day to work on math. Finally, she should find a friend who she can lean on to help with math.... or even child care so she could come to the Lab.

We'll see what happens. We are now on our summer schedule and will only be open one day a week.

GED Math and Adding Integers

2010-06-17T19:29:00.000-05:00

Does adding numbers give you trouble? When you see a problem like 5 + (-3), do you want to run away! You are not alone.

Adding negative numbers can be challenging.... that is until you put it in terms of money. Let me give you an example.

If I take a problem like 5 + (-3), I start with the first number... and that is the amount in my checkbook. Granted, $5 is not alot. But in today's economy, I will take what I can get:)

So, if I start with $5 in my account and then I write a check for $3 (thus the -3).... I now only have $2 left in my account!

Simple enough, isn't it.

Let's try one more.

-15 + 25

Let's say I checked my account this morning and found out that I am over drawn by $15 (thus the -15). But I was able to scrape together $25 and deposit it into my account (+25). I now have $15 in my account.

Hope this helps you with adding positive and negative numbers.

GED and Learning to Read- Word Famililies

2010-01-04T19:16:00.001-06:00

It is now that time of year when you find yourself wondering what 2010 will bring. Will it be better than 2009 and will you find a job. Perhaps getting your GED is your goal and you are wondering if you will EVER finish it. Remember to keep thinking positive. The power of positive thinking is amazing and the worst thing you can do is fall into depression. If you think you are in a state of depression, seek help. Call your family doctor or a friend. Depression affects men and women of all ages, races, and economic levels.

Using word families is a great way to teach spelling, reading, and writing. Word families are words which have the same ending. This ending, such as “at” forms a chunk and learners learn the chunk and then add other sounds to it forming additional words.

One activity that I will often use involves starting with the base word family such as “at”. I write the word on a piece of paper or on a white board and have the learner say it. I then write it again and this time put a line in front of it for another word, one line for each missing letter. at, _ at

I then ask the learner to spell cat. As I say the word cat, I carefully pronounce the “c” and “at” sounds. The learner then says the word “cat” and writes it. Learners could also spell it orally to you. It is important that the learner reads, writes, and spells the words. You will be amazed at how fast they learn new words.

The learner will quickly catch on to this activity and I have found that they LOVE it.

The GED Test and a Job

2009-11-24T20:33:00.002-06:00

I got a job! I am hearing it more and more with the students in the Learning Center. But equally, I am also hearing students talk about the job that they recently lost. Does this sound familiar?

There does seem to be a gradual increasing of job availability. How does this affect the students? Well, for some students they are switching the time that they are able to come to school and study. Some simply don't come back. Some, believe it or not, decide that their education is more important and say "no" to the job.

It is certainly understandable. These students, just like you and me, must put food on the table and keep a roof over our heads. And... it perhaps means taking a job today that we would not have taken even 3 years ago.

It's a time of uncertainty and you need to help your students as best as you can. Help them with their resume and job interviewing skills. Will they need to take an entry math test for the job? They may need to brush up on their basic, and sometimes not so basic, math skills. Sometimes what they need is a friend who will "listen".

Students are grateful for what ever you can do to help.... so keep up the great work!

Stressed out?

2009-09-22T18:30:00.003-05:00

Many students are experiencing stress these days. Perhaps the stress of not having a job is weighing on them, or the stress of reduced hours makes it difficult to put food on the table. Add to that the stress of not having a GED or HSED. They might be constantly wondering if THEY will be the next to be laid off. The cost of food, medical expenses and housing can also be a stress.

Stress is not "checked at the door". Students, whether they realize it or not, bring their problems into the classroom or lab. Teachers, tutors, and mentors need to recognize this and be sensitive to it.

Make your classroom lab environment as stress-free as possible. Greet them as soon as they arrive and be sure to say "good-by" when they leave. Have a basket filled with candy or fruit. Some students may arrive without having anything to eat. As we all know, we can function better with food in our stomachs. Finally, talk to them about their goals and get them to think about life "beyond the GED". What are their dream? What will they be doing in 1, 2, or 5 years? How will they accomplish their goals and make their dreams come true?

GED Learning Centers

2009-09-09T19:58:00.000-05:00

Perhaps the last place you (as a GED candidate) or you (as a GED teacher/tutor) want to be this summer is in a GED Learning Center.

As a teacher, you probably need/want a much deserved break. Although with the economy the way it is.... I am sure you will take any work you can! And certainly, there is a continued need for those types of services. As an instructor who works in an Adult Learning Center, I get new students every day! Students who are needing their GED, students who need to brush up on their basic skill to get into a program, and students who need to brush up on their skills to either get or keep their job. The need is there and it takes each of us to put in the extra effort! Thank you to each of you who are there in the front line helping those students! You make an effort EACH time you step into the classroom.

If you are a student, you also may be feeling the need to take a break. But now is NOT the time to take break. Now is the time to forge forward! They say the economy is slowly turning around.. but not fast enough! Take the time to faithfully work with a teacher/tutor. If you are able to get to a Learning Center, go and work with your instructors. I realize that it is not always easy or even possible at times. You have family responsibilities and hopefully... you also are also one of the lucky ones who has a job responsibility. Don't let anyone or anything slow you down as you continue to forge on and work at your goal!

I Failed My GED Math Test! What do I do now?

2008-10-09T14:19:00.003-05:00

Have you heard these words before? Perhaps you have said these words.

What do you do when you take the GED math test and fail? What is your next step?

I have worked with many students who have taken and passed the GED math test. I have also worked with many students who have taken and failed the test.

The GED Math test is perhaps the toughest of the five GED tests. It is by far, in my opinion, the one test that you need to study the most in order to pass.

If you have taken and failed the test, do not despair! You are not alone. What you need to do is persevere and keep on studying. Now, more than ever, you need to complete your GED and move on to the next phase of your educational career!

With the economy the way it is, it is becoming harder and harder to find a good job (let alone ANY job) without a diploma.

Grab a book, any GED math book, a study buddy and keep plugging away. It is going to take time and in some cases alot of time. You may need to start in the area of fractions. Most students do. Be positive and take control of your math learning!

Good luck!

GED Test Prep- Get Plenty of Sleep and be Rested

2008-09-29T16:32:00.000-05:00

When you are preparing to take the actual GED test, remember to get plenty of sleep the night before. If you work third shift, you may want to arrange to have a day off. Each of the battery of the GED tests is long.... not short. You will need ALL your mind energy!

Eat a healthy well-balanced meal for breakfast! The last thing you need on your mind is a grumbling stomach! Eat something.... even if you need to grab an apple.

Don't do any last minute cramming... it is better to have a rested and relaxed mind. You have done all your studying already, so just go in and do the best that you can.

Good luck and let me know how you did!

Preparing for the GED and Getting GED Help

2008-09-22T10:03:00.003-05:00

What is the best way to prepare for the GED and getting GED help? Three ways include finding a tutor, finding a GED Learning Center, and studying on your own.

What's the best way? I do not think there is a "one size fits all". You need to find out what is best for YOU!

Take a look at your situation and ask yourself some questions. Do you know someone who could tutor you? Do you live within a reasonable distance to a GED Learning Center and does your schedule permit you to attend? Do you have the self-discipline to study on your own?

If you answer yes.... to any of these questions, then perhaps you have some direction. Find the best way for YOU and then go with it!

Good luck!

GED Age Requirement

2008-06-16T19:29:00.002-05:00

If you are thinking of taking the GED tests, be sure that you know your state's age requirements and GED requirements. Contact your state or local "Official GED Testing Center".

If you are 16 or 17 you will most likely need to be in a program through a High School or Technical College. Although not always. If you have a Community Based Organization (CBO) that offers GED prep, you may be able to study there as well. There may also be an age requirement for testing.

If you are 18.5 you will be able to attend an Adult Learning Center and begin testing after completing a GED orientation. Again, you need to check with your state requirements.

Another great resource is the American Council on Education website.

Retesting in the GED math test

2008-06-10T20:11:00.003-05:00

"I passed all the tests, but the GED math test. I scored a 400 and I need a 410. What can I do".

Believe it or not.... you are NOT alone. I have worked with several students who have scored between a 380 and 400 on their math test.

For most of them, they needed to go back to the basics and review fractions, decimals, and percents.

I know, I know! You just want to take the math test, pass it and get on with your life. You might be someone who can review and retake the test fairly fast..... or you may need to study for awhile and after a month or two.... then retest.

My advice. Find a good book and a good tutor. Take your time, be patient with yourself, and you will know when you are ready again to attempt the GED Math test.

How many times can I take the GED tests?

2008-06-04T19:36:00.002-05:00

Check with your local GED Testing Center regarding the number of times you can take a GED test within a year. Some testing centers will allow you to take each test up to three times within a calendar year.

You don't want to be caught off guard if you fail a test..... and then find out you need to wait awhile before you can retest.

Check first to see what the guidelines are for your area.

Stop in at your GED Tutoring Center or give someone a call.

Battery of 5 GED Tests

2008-05-27T20:05:00.002-05:00

For anyone who is new or is thinking of taking the GED tests, it is important to know a little about them.

There are 5 GED tests: GED Math, GED Writing, GED Science, GED Social Studies, and GED Reading (or Language Arts).

Check with your local GED testing center to determine if you have to take all 5 at once, or if you can take one test at a time. It would be my recommendation that, if possible, take one at a time.

You will need to average 450 per test so that you acquire at least 2250 points. But, again, check with your testing agency to determine how many points are required in your state.

GED

2008-04-26T09:19:00.004-05:00

GED Math

2008-04-07T19:21:00.002-05:00

What do you do when you are working with a student in GED math and you know that they need to start with the basics..... but they want to jump to algebra and geometry? Do you insist that they begin at the beginning of the book or do you teach as needed. In other words, take each GED math problem at a time and address the "how to" as needed?

I struggle with this ALL the time. As probably the most difficult of the GED tests, math seems to intimidate a lot of students. They want to finish and finish fast!

My advice is to determine what is best for you (if you are a student) or for your student (if you are a tutor or teacher). Think about it, talk about it with others, but in the end.... go with what you think is best.

Good luck!

GED Study Buddy

2008-03-18T07:49:00.003-05:00

If you are new to the GED, or you have been studying for awhile, you may want to consider finding a study buddy. Someone you can get together with and study for the GED test. It does not have to be someone who is studying in the same GED areas as you, nor does it have to be someone studying for the GED.

If you are studying GED Math, find someone who is good at math or has previously taken the GED Math test. If you are preparing for the GED Writing test, find someone who is good at writing or has taken the GED Writing test.

You may want to get together once or twice a week. Perhaps you communicate via email.

Whatever works best for you..... in your busy schedule.

Good luck!

Passing the GED Test

2008-01-01T16:01:00.000-06:00

Well, it is January 1, 2008 and you have probably decided that you want to complete your GED tests. Easy, right? Well... for some people yes it might be. But for others it can be a challenge. There are 5 GED tests and the two that are the most difficult.... at least for alot of people are the GED Math and the GED Writing. If your New Year's Resolution is to pass the GED, you may want to consider taking classes or getting a tutor. Good luck... and if you are inclined, respond to this post and tell us YOUR story.

GED

2007-10-31T20:14:00.001-05:00

I recently attended the Wisconsin GED and Adult Literacy Conference.

GED Math Dictionary

2007-08-27T20:26:00.001-05:00

Did you know.....

is, is equal to, equals, the same MEANS =
of, the product, times, multiple, multiplied by MEANS x or ∙
add, more than, plus, sum, increased by, added to, more MEANS +
subtract, less than, minus, difference, decreased by, less MEANS -
divide, divided by, the quotient MEANS ÷
double, twice, twice as much MEANS 2x or 2 ∙
half, half of, half as much MEANS ½ x or ½ ∙

A great math dictionary to use for preparing for the GED test is Usborne Illustrated Math Dictionary.

GED: General Education Diploma

2007-08-12T16:26:00.000-05:00

The acronym GED stands for General Education Diploma. There are 5 tests, called a Battery, that make up the GED tests. They are Language Arts, Reading; Language Arts, Writing; Science; Social Studies; and Mathematics.

These five tests measure the knowledge found in those areas. The GED tests are timed tests that can vary from 65 minutes to 2 hours.

Depending on where you are located, you may need to take the entire battery of GED tests in one or two sittings. Other places will allow you to test one test at a time.

It is important that you contact your local official GED Testing Center to find out the specific GED requirements for your location.

Tracking your GED Scores

2007-08-01T18:17:00.000-05:00

Make it your responsibility to keep track of your GED scores. Know what tests you have taken and what you received as a score. If you move, request a certified copy of your test scores. They will follow you, but most GED testing centers will need "official" documentation. In addition, keep copies of all your records, reading and math assessments..... proof of GED orientation..... any GED classes you have taken, etc.

Super Savings on GED Books

2007-07-23T13:35:00.002-05:00

I don't usually do this, but this is such a great deal, that I wanted you to know about this GREAT GED sale that I am having. If you are tutoring students, or you are currently studying for your GED, then this may be the sale for you.

You may wonder why I am reducing inventory. I am getting rid of some of my GED books because I plan on bringing in other GED materials and I need the space!

SOLD OUT

GED Reading: Read, Read, and Read Some More

2007-07-20T19:29:00.000-05:00

Read, read, and read some more. All of the GED tests involve reading. Unless you can read and comprehend what you read, you will have difficulty with the tests. Read every day whether it is the local newspaper, a book, or your email. Grad a book and read to your child. If you struggle with reading, find a good teacher or tutor. The higher your reading level and comprehension, the easier the tests will be for you.

Reading level

2007-07-14T15:30:00.000-05:00

It is important to prepare using the appropriate learning materials. This means materials that are appropriate with your current skills. If you have a reading level of at least 10th grade, you should not have any problems with the Language Arts, Reading, Science, or Social Studies tests. If your reading level is lower than 10th grade, consider purchasing Pre-GED study materials.

GED Study

2007-07-09T09:06:00.000-05:00

Study, study, and study some more! Whether you decide to take a class or purchase GED study materials, it is important that you take your GED preparation and studying seriously. The more you study, the quicker you will complete. If you get stuck in an area and do not understand it, get help. Ask friends, family, your boss, anyone you know who may be able to help you. Sign up for a GED class. Do not get discouraged, and if you find yourself getting frustrated- again, ask for help.

Get sleep!

2007-06-27T15:31:00.000-05:00

Be sure to get plenty of sleep the night before the test. It is important to be rested and clear of mind.

GED or Pre-GED ??

2007-06-13T15:29:00.000-05:00

When considering GED study materials, there will be many choices. My suggestion would be either Pre-GED or GED materials depending on your reading ability. Pre-GED is appropriate for individuals who are below a 9th grade reading level. GED materials are appropriate for individuals above a 9th grade reading level.

If you are unsure of your reading level, check with your local tech school or adult tutor and have your reading assessed. It's painless and should be quite inexpensive.

Know what areas of GED to study

2007-06-07T15:25:00.000-05:00

It is important to determine which GED areas you are weak in. Many study books will have pre assessment tests to help you determine what area/s of the book you should start with. This is especially important when you are studying math. Consider each piece of math as a building block. You need a solid foundation of basic math (whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents) before you can successfully handle algebra, measurement and geometry.

If you have access to a learning center where a GED Instructor can assess your skills, have them help you determine where to start.

It has been my experience that the better your reading, the faster you will proceed through the GED.

One test at a time

2007-06-06T17:14:00.000-05:00

Tip #1

If you can, take one official GED test at a time. You will be less tired and you will receive a better score than if you try to take as many tests as possible in one session. If you decide to double up on GED tests, only double up on Language Arts, Reading and one other.

I do realize that in some states and locals, you may need to take all five at once. However, if it is possible, DON'T.

Answering GED test questions

2007-06-06T15:32:00.001-05:00

When taking the GED practice and official tests, answer those questions that you know right away first and go back to the others later. Do not spend an over amount of time on questions and passages that you do not understand. Rather, skim through and answer those you are sure about, then go back and finish those in question.

Welcome to My Blog

2007-06-05T16:34:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my blog! If you are reading this, you are somehow working with the GED tests. Either you are a student, teacher, or tutor. This blog is intended to be a teacher's look at the GED. I have been prepping students for more than 12 years. Anytime you wish to add something, please feel free to post a comment.