Life Beyond the GED

Many times I will get asked questions regarding attending college after getting a GED. Is a GED enough? Will the institution require another test?

My advice is to simply ask. If you are looking to enter a college, the army, or get a better job.... ask THEM what the requirements are. You will get the advice you need at the right time that you need it.

Getting the GED is a stepping stone into a better part of the students life. It is the first step into something greater and better.

Embrace it!

GED Anxiety

It is not unusual for a GED student to have a bit of anxiety. For many students, their past educational experience had not been a positive one. Many remember a time when all they experienced was negativity from teachers and "F's". To put themselves in the forefront, go to school/learning center, and take a test/s..... takes a lot of courage and self determination! Remember to continually praise your students and encourage them throughout the GED testing process. Getting positive reinforcement goes along way.... and everyone needs and craves it.... regardless of age.

GED Age

When can a person take the GED tests? Some can take them at age 17 while others must wait until they are 18.5 years of age. You need to check with your local GED testing center to see what their requirements are.

In most cases, you will need to attend a GED orientation so that you understand the program, complete the proper paperwork, and take an assessment to determine your reading skills.

GED Reading

Read, read, and read some more. Encourage your GED students to read on a daily basis. All 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. Grab a book and read to your child.

Teaching GED Math Real Life Application

Adult students, just like any other student, must connect to their math lessons to their daily life situations. This will make math real for them.

When I teach students about perimeter, I try to connect it with a remodeling project, applying base board around a livingroom.

When I teach about area, I connect it to painting walls or laying carpet.

If the student can connect their math lesson to a life situation that they can relate to..... they understand the lesson a whole lot better...... and quicker!

GED Math: adding fractions with common denominator

To add a fraction, express each fraction with a common denominator. Once each fraction has the same denominator, add the numerators and simplify.

Pascal's Triangle

An interesting number pattern is Pascal's Triangle. It was named after Blaise Pascal, a famous French Mathenatician and Philosopher.

Pascal's Triangle is included in the GED Math Practice tests and may appear in an "official" GED test. Therefore, it is importatant that GED students understand what the pattern is. I know that for myself, each time I see it, I have to THINK about the pattern.

Once you know what the pattern is, it is easy to continue the pattern.

Each number is just the two numbers above it, added together.

Now that I know the pattern..... I won't forget it!