GED® is the designated acronym for General Educational Development and is a certificate awarded on the completion of a set of tests in five areas. For all intents and purposes, a GED® is an equivalent substitute for a high school diploma. The American Council on Education is the developer of the GED® and there are established testing centers in all 50 states in America and the Canadian Provinces. Prior to taking this proctored test, many people participate in GED® pre testing, better known as practice tests.
GED® pre testing involves taking a practice test that is similar in content and presentation to the actual test to help prepare for the proctored exam. GED® pre testing is a notion similar to pre testing for other exams, such as the SAT. By reviewing the material included in each area of testing, test-takers can familiarize themselves with the type of questions they will be asked. GED® pre testing also gives the test-taker an idea of which area or areas they may be lacking knowledge in, giving them a chance to adequately prepare.
There are numerous websites that provide GED® practice tests and sample questions and resources for studying for the test are available from the American Council on Education. Professional educators and test preparers also provide resources for preparing for the test and many offer GED® pre testing as way to develop a study plan. Many high schools also offer resources and pre testing services to students who are at risk of not graduating or elect to leave high school early.
The GED® testing program began in 1942 as a way for military members who left high school before graduation to be given an opportunity to demonstrate the same level of academic skills as their peers. Some people incorrectly assume that GED® stands for General Equivalency Diploma or General Education Diploma. The five subject areas included on the GED® test are science, mathematics, social studies and language arts, which is broken down into reading and writing. These are the same core subject areas addressed in mainstream high school education and the test is designed to measure acceptable levels of equivalent academic knowledge.
GED® pre testing is a good idea for adults who have been out of school for an extended period of time and for those who may have difficulty with a specific subject area. The test must be taken in person and registration at the desired testing center is required. Though individuals may take the test as many times as necessary to pass, there is a fee for every attempt. This is another reason why GED® pre testing and preparation is useful.
