Showing posts with label gedmath. Show all posts
Showing posts with label gedmath. Show all posts

Friday, October 03, 2014

GED Math Worksheets for GED Math Help

If you are looking for good worksheets to help you or your students learn/teach/review basic math, or help you learn GED math help, check out the following GED math learning help website, www.worksheetsdirect.com  You can download free math resources!

GED math worksheets

Friday, April 11, 2014

Using the GED Calculator TI-30XS

The GED Testing Service has determined that the best calculator for the new GED 2014 test is the TI-30XS.  Use of this calculator will be on the GED Math test as well as the GED Science test.

The GED testing service has several videos on using this calculator.  The calculator videos can be located on the GED Testing Service website. 

I have also found some great U-Tube videos on this calculator.... specific to the GED test. Check out the following:






Sunday, June 06, 2010

GED Math Tip: Understand Your Math Skills

GED Math Tip #2: Understand Your Math Skills

Now that you know a little about the GED math test, it is time to focus on YOU. How do you feel about math? When you think about having to solve a fraction, decimal, or percent problem.... do you have a feeling of intense frustration or helplessness? Do you feel confident or terrified?
Part of your frustration may come from not knowing what your math skills are. Learningtrends has a free pre-ged math assessment to help you determine what you know and also what you don't. Taking this assessment will NOT determine all that you need to study, but it will be a start. Click here to take now.

Math Anxiety: A feeling of intense frustration or helplessness about one's ability to do math. It is an emotional reaction to math based on past unpleasant math experiences. To help overcome math anxiety, you must have good learning experiences in math.

If you feel anxious about math, you may want to consider learning (or reviewing) it in what I call "slivers". Learn a little at a time with continuous review. Start with what you already know and build on that knowledge.

Find a good math book that starts with whole numbers and number sense.

Determine if you know your basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division facts. Click here to access learning Quia math facts activities.

If you find that you need review in basic math facts, check out Learningtrends free math flashcards to help.

Leave a comment or just give a Thumbs Up or Thumbs down.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Cramming for the GED Test

Is it possible? Can a person cram the night before the GED Tests and successfully pass all five of them? I doubt it.

First of all, you will not want to take all five of the GED tests at once... unless you are required to do so. Wisconsin lets GED Candidates take one test at a time, and that is what I recommend. Check out it before you sign up for the test/s.

So.. can a person successfully cram and take one test? Depends on what that test is and how much background the person has in it. If a person has fairly good reading skills, they may be able to pass the GED Reading Test, GED Social Studies Test, and the GED Science Test. But I would highly recommend that the person take a "practice GED test" in each area prior to taking the "official"GED test. The practice test will be a pretty good indicator as to how a person will do on the "official" GED test.



What about the math or writing test? Again, I would recommend a practice GED test. The GED Math and GED Writing test are the two tests that most students will need some help with.

So... I would NOT recommend cramming for any of the GED tests. I do realize that a student will be anxious to finish ASAP, but as a teacher try to get them to slow down... at least a little bit so that they will have a greater chance of success. As a GED student, be patient with yourself and take your time so that you are successful when you do take the test/s.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

GED Tips: A Teacher’s Experience

GED Tips: A Teacher’s Experience

I have been teaching basic skills and GED preparation for over 10 years. Over time there are many tips that I have passed to my students. Here are my top 25 GED tips. Note that they are not in any particular order.

Please feel free to comment on them and add any that you have found helpful.

1. If you can, take one official GED test at a time. You will be less tired and will received 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 the Language Arts, Reading and one other.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. The only exception in study materials may be math where it is important to have a solid foundation of math skills. Most of the foundational skills require repetitive practice, and they include the following: Basic adding, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. There are many great basic math books available. However, whatever book/s you decide to prepare math with, it is important to still work through a GED math book. Top favorites of mine are Top 50 Math Skills for GED Success, Number Power Review, or GED Mathmatics.

5. 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. A great pre-GED math book is Contemporary's Pre-GED Math.

6. Be sure to get plenty of sleep the night before the test.

7. 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.

8. If you find yourself out of time, but still have unanswered questions, do NOT leave the answers blank. Quickly fill in an answer; any answer- At least you will have a chance of picking the right one.

9. When working with passages and questions, skim through the questions first. This will give you an idea of what you are reading for.

10. Have a study plan and stick to it.

11. Reward yourself! When completing a GED test, treat yourself to a good movie or a great night out! You deserve it.

12. If you are easily distracted by noise, check with the official GED Testing Center in your state to see if you can use earplugs.

13. Use ALL resources available to you. Call your local GED testing center. If you have a local GED Learning Center, use it! They will be able to answer questions that are specific to your locale. In addition, you may receive one on one instruction or tutoring.

14. Make it your responsibility to keep track of your GED scores. Know what you have taken and what you received as a score. Request a certified copy of your test scores.

15. If you move, your score will follow. Most GED Centers will require a certified copy of your current scores. In addition, they will want to know what materials you have been working in and any other assessments you may have taken.

16. Many states will require a formal GED Orientation Session prior to testing. In addition, some may require classes or have other requirements. It is important that you contact them to see what requirements are specific to your area.

17. Take ownership of your GED education. It is YOUR responsibility to learn all you can about your states GED requirements. It is your responsibility to study and prepare for the GED tests. It is your responsibly to seek help when needed, and it is your responsibility to make getting a GED a priority in your life. You can do it!

18. Getting your GED is a starting point in your life. It is a stepping-stone to greater things. Start thinking about what you will do once you have accomplished this goal. Will you take additional classes at the local community college? Will you be able to get a job or upgrade your current job situation?


19. Read, read, and read some more. 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.

20. Write, write, and write some more. Most people do not have to write daily, and therefore many do not feel confident in writing a 200+ word essay without practice. Keep a journal and write in it each and every day. Get an email account and use it. Write a letter to your friend or to the local newspaper. The more you write, the easier it becomes.

21. Add, subtract, multiply, and divide. To be successful at the GED math test, you need a solid foundation of math skills. They include, but are not limited to, the following: whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. Get those skills down and studying for the GED test becomes easier. Some great math study packets include Solving Word Problems, Fractions, Algebra, and Measurement and Geometry.

22. GED scores move with you. You can start testing in one state and complete the GED process in another; however, check with your local official testing center to determine the exact requirements for your location.

23. Consider a study buddy. Find someone who you know, like, and trust and study with them. It may be another individual who is working on their GED, or someone who is taking other classes.

24. Know the formulas for the math test. The formulas are found in the front part of many GED math books. They are also included in this guide.

25. Take Practice GED Tests prior to taking an Official GED Test. The practice tests will give you a sense of time (GED tests are timed), and they will give you an idea of what the tests will be like. Currently, only ½ length tests are available. The practice tests will also be a good indicator of the score you may receive. If you score 500+, you should do well on the official test in that area. There are many GED practice tests available, but I recommend Steck Vaughn’s forms PA, PB, PC, PD, PE or PF. If you take at least two of Steck Vaughn’s practice tests and receive a score of 500+ on both, it is time to sign up for the official test. Call your local GED testing Center.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Usborne Math Dictionary: Your GED Math Reference Book

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 ∙

The GED math test is perhaps the hardest GED test to pass!! I have had success with some students who have used Usborne's Math Dictionary as a reference.

Check it out!

A great math dictionary to use for preparing for the GED test is Usborne Illustrated Math Dictionary. It is a great bargain and less than $15.

Saturday, April 26, 2008

GED Math test: I've taken it twice and failed!

"What do I do? I just can't pass that GED math test! I have taken it twice and failed!" I hear this so often.

If you follow my blog, you know then that I have talked about this before. In my experience, the GED math test IS the HARDEST test for many GED candidates to pass.

A friend of mine recently used the following comparison. Many students address their math weakness like a person who wants to loose weight.

As a person who is overweight myself... I would pay almost anything for a "pill" to magically take my excess pounds off. What I need to do is put in the hard work, exercise, and eat less!

Some students who struggle with math also want that quick fix. They do not want to put in the time, start at the beginning, and build on what they know.


If you are a math student who is struggling, or you are a tutor helping someone learn math..... be patient, keep working, and have your eye on the goal!

Monday, March 24, 2008

GED "Blues"

Are you as tired as I am with Winter? It is that time of year when we think of flowers, sun, and patio parties. Not here in the upper mid-west. Winter is never ending!

As a GED teacher, I see the GED 'blues" or depression setting in on some of the students I work with. They are not always showing up, and when they do.... they are not necessary ready to WORK.

Just keep encouraging your students! Let them know that winter is just about over and that it is normal to get the winter blues.

Perhaps take a field trip, or have a "I can't wait until Summer" party.

Now is not the time to slow down.... but to keep pressing forward.

Remind them to keep their eye on the prize!

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

GED Update

If you have been reading this blog, you will remember the student who struggled to pass their GED math test. That student then passed the test, but still needed 80 points. Well here is an update.

That student is now just 20 points away from getting his GED! How did he do it? He did it with hard work and perserverance!

If you are struggling to pass the GED, know that you are NOT alone. There are many individuals like you who struggle with one or more of the tests. Keep at it! Don't get discouraged, and remember to ask for help when you need it.

What's your story?

Saturday, February 23, 2008

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.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

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!

Thursday, February 07, 2008

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.

Wednesday, February 06, 2008

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!

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

GED Math Help

School is back in session and it is becoming more and more clear to me that the majority of GED students have trouble with the Math portion. It is critical that you understand the basics of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percents, basic algebra, and basic geometry. It is also important that you understand the formulas that go along with those areas.

Don't get frustrated with the GED Math test! My suggestion is to study math a little at a time. Do this with a good GED math book. It may also help to get a tutor or study mate to help you.

Monday, January 07, 2008

Spanish GED

Regardless of whether you are preparing to take your GED tests in English or Spanish, it seems like the two most difficult tests are math and writing. Of the two, math still seems to win out. Why is that? If you have an answers or suggestions, please comment on this post.

I was at my workplace this morning preparing for next week when my students come back when a Spanish speaking student came to see me. The student is taking his tests in Spanish and is just now beginning to prepare for the math test. They have elected to use the Steck Vaughn Spanish GED Math book. One nice thing about Steck Vaughn is that if you match up the English and Spanish GED books (those that take a look at one GED test at a time), for the most part they follow each other.

That way when my Spanish speaking student comes in with a question and their Steck Vaughn book, I can grab my English version and help them.

Not always a sure thing, but if you are helping someone with limited English and you have limited or no Spanish, it is better than nothing.

If you would like the ISBN numbers of the books I am referencing, please send me an email at ghughes@learningtrends.com I would be happy to forward them to you.

Saturday, January 05, 2008

GED Math Anxiety

If your students are similar to mine, you probably have one or two who have taken the GED math test more than once. I am currently waiting for the score of a student who has taken the math test four times over a period of 3 years. This student needs to score at least a 490 to get the required points for his GED. On the other 4 the average was 440. Part of the challenge is that the student works full time, has a second job, and also has a family. The family is very supportive, but after a long day at work it is obvious that he is tired. This student will admit that math is the last thing he wants to do and doesn't understand it. Between his third and fourth test he met with me five times. In my opinion.... not near enough time. I would have liked to work with him twice a week for at least 2 months. But he did not have the time and like many of my students, just wanted to try it one more time. Well, on Monday I will be back to work and will most likely have his score. Hang tight!

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

GED Adult Learners

Soon I will be going back to work and tutoring/teaching adult students, mostly in math and the GED testing areas. As I reflect on my job and my students.... I am reminded that my job is important. Whether you are a tutor, student, or teacher you have gone through tough times where you think that you are not making a difference. Let me remind you that you are! Not only are you making a difference in the world around you, you are making a difference in yourself! You are important and your actions show others the person you are. Believe in that and believe in yourself.

I hope in 2008 to continue to help others get their GED.

Happy New Year!

Tuesday, October 09, 2007

GED Math

For a student who simply wants to "pass"the GED, it is tempting to spend little time on the math portion. For some students, those who have a fairly good foundation in math concepts, that is ok. But for those students who don't have a good foundation, this can be disastrous. Those students typically want to "bounce" around from topic to topic.

When tutoring my GED math students, I use an analogy of a mason building a brick house. Each brick represents a math concept. You must first lay a solid foundation of basic whole number understanding. If you skip or skim over a concept, it will weaken your house. Start with a solid foundation and then lay each brick of knowledge thoughtfully and in the right order.

Students don't always know what that order is. They either need a tutor, or a good GED math book.

GED Math Help

Monday, August 27, 2007

GED Math Dictionary

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. It is a great bargain and less than $15.

Sunday, August 12, 2007

GED: General Education Diploma

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.