GED Changes Shake Things Up
If you or someone you know is looking to take the GED you’ve probably already heard that starting this month (January, 2014) the test will change dramatically. In the past there has been criticism about the GED test being “too easy” and not adequately preparing students for college or careers. This new test is meant to shatter that perception as it focuses more on critical thinking, analytical skills and the ability to draw conclusions. Education officials have explained that the overhaul is to ensure that students who pass the test will be more college and career ready.
Instead of multiple choice answers and a single essay the new test format features short answers, fill in the blanks along with two extended response sections. The old GED used to consist of five sections that students had to pass: Science, Math, Social Studies, Language Arts, and an Essay. The new test consists of four sections as the Language Arts and Essay sections have been folded into one. The cost of taking the test has increased from $70 to roughly $120 although you can still pay for and take one test at a time. If you’re uncomfortable using a computer now is the time to get more familiar with basic keyboard and computer skills since the test will only be administered via computer. The good news about that is students will be able to receive their scores almost immediately instead of waiting weeks for their results.
Another change will be that in addition to the standard passing score, students can also earn an “Honors” rating if they receive a score of 170 or higher in any subject. The new Honors rating is meant to demonstrate a greater readiness for career and college.
Instructors and students seem to be divided on the significance of these changes. Some feel that additional instruction time is necessary for students to become more familiar with the new test. Others feel like the skills taught in a typical GED program will be transferable in the new format. As a former GED instructor I’d say the new test will probably require instructors to spend more time on critical thinking skills along with additional writing practice to tackle those extended response sections. There’s also the issue of the considerable fee increase which is probably a burden on many working towards their GED.
The new GED test will be about seven hours long. Here’s the breakdown:
Reasoning through Language Arts is 150 minutes (including a 10-minute break)
Mathematical Reasoning is 90 minutes
Science is 90 minutes
Social Studies is 90 minutes
For more information about the new GED test visit http://www.education.state.pa.us/ged.